The Bearded Nurse

Published

  1. To shave or not to shave...that is the question.

    • 4
      Shave your face!
    • 7
      Leave the beard.
    • 2
      I couldn't care less what you do dude.

11 members have participated

Hey guys!

So it finally happened! I got offered two different interviews today at a rather prestigious hospital. I am really excited and nervous. However, I have an issue. I have a beard.

It is nothing big...not Duck Dynasty level or anything...and it was never a problem during clinicals.

However, I want to put my best foot forward in this interview. What are your thoughts? Should I shave the beard...or keep it for the interview?

Thanks guys!

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Specializes in MICU, SICU, CICU.

In my part of the country the guys are clean shaven and only grow a beard for hunting season.

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Have you had a chance to see what other males in the facility have? While there may not be a policy per say on beards, there may be a unwritten rule of beards not preferred.

IMO, clean shaven is the way to go for an interview.

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Specializes in PCT, RN.

Even though beards are becoming more popular and more common, I would say shave it for the interview!

When you get the job, look over the policy and see if you can grow it back out after.

Good luck! Beards are awesome.

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The easy and safe solution is to shave for your interviews. The beard can always be brought back after you have the job. Good luck.

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Specializes in Hospice.

I agree: hair is a renewable resource. Job offers, not so much.

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I think facial hair is appropriate for an interview if it's short & neat. Looking like Santa is a NO for an interview. Clean shaven is always good. However, you should look at the staff of the facility to see what is appropriate and acceptable for your region.

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

I've had a beard for every nursing job I ever applied for.

the big question is, How do you look in a beard? Some people look good in them, others just kind of scruffy.

If you keep it, just make sure it is neat and well trimmed, and don't go in with it growing on your neck or cheekbones. That always looks sloppy.

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Thank you for all the feedback guys! I think I'm gonna play it safe and lose the beard. I don't want to take a chance on anything!

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Keep a well trimmed, professional looking beard. And there shouldn't be a problem. I have a beard, I keep it at a 3 on the clippers and clean up the edges, and I was hired on at the emergency department.

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Specializes in Emergency Medicine, WOCN.

Best choice, shave it off for the interview. At the facility, take notice of others and ensure that you are aware of the compliance policy, as there should be one on appearances. Don't take the chance. Shave it then grow it back if the compliance policy is accepting, would be my recommendation. Many hospitals do not allow them. My last one didn't. Best of luck though.

R. Kenneth O'Neal Doctoral Student (Ed.D) MHA, BSHS, LPN, AA, EMT-B

Trident University International

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As long as it looks professional, clean, short and neat it shouldn't be a problem. But if you wanna go clean cut it'll always grow back.

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