Shelley Stevens of Platinum Face and Body Clinic says much of the motivation cited by clients levitating to her beauty services is often to enhance professional opportunities. “It wasn’t just the women who thought their appearance might result in discrimination. Men who visit our clinic often say that’s why they paid us a visit.” she said.
Inferences in social science suggest the appearance of youth is subconsciously associated with vitality, energy, health, and creativity. It’s a biological instinct. Unfortunately, the opposite is true once one begins to look a little older. “The keyword here is ‘subconsciously’.” continues Stevens. “Recruiters and managers may consciously consider your ability and nothing else, but even if they do, their subconscious reactions affect the overall impression.”
In a 2017 study on the effect of facial ageing on hiring choices, subjects evaluated younger and older candidates based on a photograph only and then rated them according to perceived hire-ability. The findings suggested a relationship of significance, however not so much with a lower or job entry position.
Continue reading Recruitment bias and ageism: Is it really a thing? →
