Bullish Q&A: Half-Shaved Haircuts, Interviews, And Lady-Mentors

I was just reading through some of your articles (I reread them when I’m in need of career strength) and I’m in the process of girding my loins and applying to jobs out of state and moving, all the while planning a wedding.

My question came about from reading this article.

To preface: I have short hair, very short on the right side and gradually increases in length to form an array of curls on the left side, no longer than right below my jaw. It’s very trendy, and I love it, especially after so many years of boring hair.

The problem is that now that I’ll be getting interviews (optimism!) I’ll be applying to architecture firms. I worry that my hair will send the wrong message about me.

So, do I rock the hair and put together a fierce but appropriate interview outfit to match, or should I slick it back and don’t release it until I’m hired?

The pictures are for reference. My hair is a combination of the two, but my own natural brunette color.

- Rihanna

ps. I’m trying to get myself a lady architect mentor, and so far, nothing. Sigh.

Dear Rihanna,

Good question, and awesome hair! In fact, your hair sounds positively … architectural.

I’d go with it, but let the shaved part grow out enough (get it nicely trimmed around the ear area, etc.) that it comes across as “short” and not “shaved,” much like the second photo you sent.

To finish reading this post, head on over to Bullish.
To finish reading this post, head on over to Bullish.

Lastango

I’d suggest going mainly by the sort of work the firm does, and who the clients are.

If the firm is designing standard commercial fare like ordinary office buildings, post offices, medical facilities, military bases, or industrial facilities like sewage treatment plants, then I’d say keep it conservative. There’s not much flair in any of all that. Designs are driven by considerations like controlling construction and operating costs, and configuring a facility that gets the job done. A lot of that sort of work relates to renovations and extensions, not new-builds.

If someone wants to work for the likes of Calatrava, then fashionable posturing is probably a job requirement. They’re definately selling the sizzle, not the steak.

Web photos of the firm’s own offices and staff can offer another clue. If their office is stand-alone, I’d suggest trying to get a discrete look at the people going in and out in the morning.
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