Overweight and going to second interview (2009, apply, employers, find a job)

[JulieCo2009]

Hi all-

First of all, I'm working on my weight problem and know it is a definite factor in getting hired. I was at my last job 20 years before getting laid off 3 months ago and had a weight problem for probably 15 of those years.

In a perfect world, I could wait until I lost my weight and then interview with increased confidence. But this is the real world. :0)

I've had 2 second interviews and they actually went well. Was I not selected because of weight? I'll never know for sure.

My interview tomorrow is with a great company. The first interview was via phone. I know my stuff and would be a great asset. But will they see past my chubby form to who I really could be for their business?

At worst I guess, this can be viewed as a learning experience to apply to all future interviews as I also work on my weight problem concurrently.

Help, help, help......do I really have to go tomorrow? These grownup reindeer games are scary. Anyone else go through some fear and trepidation before interviews?

Julie

[SmerkyGrl]

I think people make your weight an issue only because you make it an issue. What is your field? The only fields I can see bodyweight being a problem are those that require significant physical exertion. Your resume, charisma, and work experience is what interviewers will fixate on. You're just using weight as an excuse as to why you didn't get a return call. Don't do it, its a destructive, inaccurate cycle. One of the most brilliant people in my office is 3 times the size of me, literally.

[JulieCo2009]

Hi Smerky! I'm definately not in the weight lifting field. :0) I'm not using weight as an excuse for anything. I don't think I would be getting second interviews if weight were the deciding factor. I do think that health care and insurance could be a small issue if a candidate has a weight problem. I am pretty healthy, but they don't know that.

Thanks for the feedback.

[kaykay]

Well, Julie, I can only tell you that I am overweight too and have really not ever had too much problem getting a job. Now, admittedly, I haven't had to look since the recession hit. So I do understand it's much tougher and more competitive.

My advice to you solely on the "appearance" issue is this~ Yes, try to lose weight as you said you are, but in the meantime, dress as sharply and attractively as you possibly can. I believe when you are interviewing for a job it is a very wise investment to put some bucks into your interviewing wardrobe. Even though you are overweight, you can dress stylishly and not look "frumpy." Same goes for your hairstyle.

[7 Wishes]

I think if your weight was truly an issue you wouldn't have gotten to the second interview. After all, someone saw you and still sent you to the next step. Good luck!

[stevemorse]

weight come off, uglyness does not!

Go, dress to impress, put your best foot forward, and remember WEIGHT COMES OFF, UGLYNESS DOES NOT!

Good luck!

[berneke]

Originally Posted by JulieCo2009

Hi Smerky! I'm definately not in the weight lifting field. :0) I'm not using weight as an excuse for anything. I don't think I would be getting second interviews if weight were the deciding factor. I do think that health care and insurance could be a small issue if a candidate has a weight problem. I am pretty healthy, but they don't know that.

Thanks for the feedback.

I would never consider weight an issue in hiring someone. First, I don't like to judge people. Some people are just naturally overweight. You'll also never catch me making rude comments about someone's weight (have some respect people!).

If you're really competent in your field, just focus on your talents and know that you have something to offer. As others have said, unless it's a job that requires some kind of physical prowess weight shouldn't be an issue. Heck, I have a glaring physical weakness, I'M UGLY, but yet I have been hired time and time again.

Good luck...

[iarch]

People do not interview just 1 person for a second interview.
Statistically, the more attractive person gets the job.
If the second candidate pool is very close, then the superficial becomes the deciding factor.
Yes, overweight people do get hired, but they also do not.
If you do not get then job, then all you can do is check back with linkedin to see if a more attractive person got the job, but then that becomes irrelevant if you do not know their credentials or background.

All you can do is to be yourself, at least for now!

If you are overweight, then that is much better than being obese, but sometimes it may be hard to discern the difference.

[azoria]

I weigh 130 lbs. and I can't find a job either. But I am over 50.

Being over 50 is a bigger drawback than being overweight. Employers dislike older workers more than they dislike overweight workers.

[thepinksquid]

If you can afford it right now, go out and get yourself a nice new professional outfit that you look killer in for the interview. One that hugs your curves, flatters your best areas, and doesn't accentuate your "problem" areas. Just wear something that you feel AWESOME in. If you get new shoes, wear them around the house to feel comfortable in before the interview (esp if they are heels).

Why am I telling you to do this? Because regardless of your weight, you need to feel confident at an interview. NEED TO. And, with the right clothing that is appropriate for your body shape and size, you'll feel much better about your appearance. It's worth it.