Sorry if this a dumb question, but should I be clean shaven for an interview? Is a well-groomed beard ok? Is a mustache ok? I just don't know what's proper. I have some interviews with regionals and wanted to be sure. Thanks in advance. Feel free to add other etiquette or other tips!

 

If the airline or operator doesn't authorize beards, don't show up with one.

If the airline or operator does authorize beards, don't show up with one.

Shave.

I can't believe the question is even asked.

 

It probably won't matter at a regional interview. Worst case they might ask if you're willing to shave if hired. My buddy showed up, after a decade+ out of the industry, with rocker hair. They didn't bat an eye, and hired him on the spot as a DEC.

But don't show up Don Johnson, either have a beard or not.

I'd shave for a major though.

 

If I shave then my current employer will know I am looking for another job. Can I keep my facial hair and simply explain that in the interview and emphasize I am willing to shave on day 1 of the job?

 

Consider first impressions when you walk into a room… be it for an interview, meeting with potential clients and or students if a CFI, Many in HR are your Corned Beef Sandwich on white bread with Mayonnaise, with a glass of milk. Many of the attitudes in the hiring circle say “It’s better to look good than fly good!”. You know… the face of our carrier.

 

You had me laughing out loud, thank you.
Yeah, mayonaise is too spicy, that crowd.

 

That might work, since you have a good reason. Assuming your employer is 91/135 and you have no seniority/union protections.

 

First impression is something is hard to undo as was previously stated.
Clean shaven leaves the best impression.
Mustache may be okay if it doesn't make you look like a 70's porn star.

 

I only wore this nose ring so my current employer wouldn't know I'm looking for work behind his back. I'll take it out if you hire me, and I won't go behind your back.

My hair is long to fool my current employer. I'm not the kind of employee who would fool you. Plus, I'll cut my hair, so I don't look like Keanu Reeves at the end of Point Break.

This isn't the real me. You have to hire me to see the real me.

I didn't consider your invitation to interview to be important enough to shave, but if you hire me, then you'll be important enough.

I don't' respect you. now, but if you pay me, I'll respect you.

The person you see before you now is not the person you'll be hiring. That's a different person. You'll see.

I may be picking my nose now, in front of you, but that's not something I'll do in front of our clients. Try me out. You'll be pleasantly surprised.

I get better with time. Take a gamble. I would.

You understand the point?

 

I can remember my first interview with a major based in NJ some 40 years ago. Definitely not from my home town. I enjoy bringing cheer to the crowd.