One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways for a man to express his individual personality is by growing out a beard and styling it in a way that shows off what it is about him that’s so unique. However, sometimes, that beard can work against you. Unfortunately, we are harshly judged based on the way in which we present ourselves, and in certain environments, having an out-of-control beard can prevent us from being taken seriously. This is especially true in the workplace, where we are expected to maintain a certain image in order to reach our career-related goals.
Some work environments are stricter than others when it comes to how we appear, which means that at certain jobs, it’s okay to have a long beard, while in others, it’s strictly forbidden, even with more employers allowing their employees to come back to the workplace starting in 2022.
Professional Office Environment
Professional office environments tend to have the strictest codes when it comes to physical appearance, with men often having to wear professional attire. Therefore, it’s not surprising that many offices look down on long, unruly beards. But, that doesn’t mean that you have to be totally clean shaven. If your workplace allows it, you can explore a small variety of beard styles that still look professional.
Short, neat and trimmed beards tend to be completely welcome in professional environments, as long as they’re maintained properly. Even medium-length beards can work if they’re shaped regularly and are moisturized enough to prevent frizz and split ends.
Food Industry
Food industry jobs can also be unforgiving when it comes to facial hair, although in this instance, the reasons are more understandable. Food industry jobs are all about following food safety laws, and a lot of those laws revolve around personal hygiene. A long, messy and unclean beard can actually be a food safety hazard, which is why many restaurants forbid long beards.
However, if you are allowed to, you may be able to maintain a short or medium-length beard, especially as long as you keep it neat and clean. Of course, you have to be very careful about beard hairs falling into the food, as that can be disastrous.
Physical Labor
Physical labor jobs tend to be laxer when it comes to beards, depending on the particular job. For instance, plumbers and electricians are rarely expected to follow strict rules regarding their facial hair, so many men grow out very long beards. In these instances, it’s best to follow your instincts. If you feel that having a crazy, long beard changes the way in which people treat you on the job, you can give it a trim.
Creative
Creative jobs, especially freelance ones, allow you to be quite liberal with your facial hair. If you’re a graphic designer or a studio musician, having a unique beard can actually work in your favor. After all, in creative industries, having a unique personality can actually benefit you, as it helps you stand out from the crowd and allows you to express your individuality. So, if the circumstances allow it, feel free to go for it, exploring different beard styles until you find one that works for you.
However, we have to say again that, for better or worse, people tend to judge us based on our physical appearances. If your beard isn’t properly moisturized, it may look unhealthy, and this can make people feel that you don’t pay much attention to your personal hygiene, which can work against you. So, if you’re going to go for a unique beard style, we suggest that you take the time each day to maintain it using high-quality beard care products. And, always put effort into maintaining a neat, even shape, and trim the dead ends as needed. This way, your beard will always look healthy, which in turn makes you look more professional.
Final Bearded Working Thoughts
If you want to maintain a beard but don’t want to give off the wrong impression at work, this guide will help. Regardless of what industry you’re in, there is a beard style that will not interfere with the way in which you’re perceived. Choose a style that best compliments you and keep that amazing beard looking good.