Would You Have Plastic Surgery to Improve Your Chances for a Job?
Get surgery-free ways to boost your career prospects.
Nov. 12, 2010 — -- A story on "Good Morning America" today featured women who believed they need cosmetic surgery to keep pace in the workplace or enhance their careers.
"GMA" workplace contributor Tory Johnson, who appeared on the show to talk about the trend, refrained from criticizing an individual's decision to have cosmetic procedures. But expecting prospective employees to have plastic surgery sends the wrong message, she said.
The procedures can be costly, she pointed out, and generally are not covered by insurance and not readily available to everyone.
For someone looking for a job, such procedures are not the best use of money, she added.
She gave the following tips for how to improve your career right now.
Tory Johnson's Web-Extra Tips
Here are Johnson's tips, in her own words:
While older workers are not more likely to lose their jobs, when they are laid off, it takes them longer than their younger colleagues to be rehired. There are many possible reasons for this, including age bias, which no doubt exists in our workforce and across our youth-obsessed culture.
Plenty of plastic surgeons and other professionals tout a variety of cosmetic procedures designed to give older workers the edge in today's competitive job market. That's an unsettling trend because going under the knife isn't the solution to getting hired. In some cases, it's a confidence boost, which is a good thing because feeling and looking your best is what's most likely going to lead to success.
If a nip, tuck or injection is what you think would make you feel best, that's a personal choice. Even though none of us can control our age, we can control our confidence, which is king when searching for a job.
A 20-something who lacks confidence will perform just as poorly in the job search process as a 50-something who isn't self-assured. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to boost your self-esteem.
Tory Johnson's Web-Extra Tips
Get enough sleep and exercise. Being well-rested is one of the best ways to feel great.
Wake up and get dressed every morning as if you're reporting for work. Sleeping in or lounging around without purpose will crush your confidence.
Immerse yourself in a hobby that you love. Volunteer your time and talent for a cause that's important to you. Excelling will boost your confidence.
If you're in search of a change in appearance, there are some simple things to consider:
Make sure you have fresh interview attire that's not outdated and fits comfortably. Ask people you know and trust to offer their best advice.
Consider a haircut. Consult with a stylist on the cut that'll boost your confidence and freshen up your look. If you're on a tight budget, many cosmetology schools offer free services and some salons offer breaks for long-standing customers who are out of work. Call around in advance to inquire.
Makeup works wonders for some people, so visit the mall for a complimentary makeover and spend the day adjusting to the look before deciding if it's right for you. If it makes you feel better, then figure out how to copy the look. If not, soap and water does the trick.
Update accessories and eyeglasses. If you think your glasses age you, try on other styles to determine if there's a more youthful look.
Tory Johnson's Web-Extra Tips
If you've been out of work for an extended period, it's easy to fall into a slump because of the repeated rejection. To combat this, find small things to celebrate each day. Teeny victories improve your confidence and will guide you to your ultimate success.
Tory Johnson is the workplace contributor on "Good Morning America." Talk to Johnson about your confidence at www.twitter.com/toryjohnson, www.facebook.com/tory or www.toryjohnson.com.