Should I Shave for an Interview? Do's and Don'ts

As they say, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”. In the competitive landscape of job interviews, your appearance can be your silent negotiator, and your facial hair is front and center of that negotiation. Picture yourself walking into an interview room, confidence radiating from a well-groomed exterior that screams preparedness and attention to detail. But here's the million-dollar question: Does a clean-shaven face truly matter, or is it just another outdated professional myth? I'm here to help you answer that question. This guide will break down interview grooming tips, helping you understand how your appearance can impact your chances. After all, success is as much about presentation as it is about skill. By the end, you'll have a clear idea of whether you should reach for the razor before your next interview.

How Grooming Affects Your Image

First impressions are formed in milliseconds, and your facial hair plays a crucial role in that split-second judgment. Think of it as your face's personal brand statement. In the professional world, your grooming isn't just about looking good, it's about communicating competence, attention to detail, and self-awareness. Your beard (or lack thereof) can whisper volumes about your personality before you've uttered a single word in a job interview.

Factors to Consider Before Shaving

From subtle cultural signals to industry-specific expectations, the choice to grow, groom, or shave your facial hair requires careful consideration of multiple related factors that extend far beyond basic aesthetic preferences. For this reason, I’ve broken down the most important factors you should keep in mind when deciding whether or not to shave for an interview.

Your Industry and Job Position

Every industry has its own unwritten grooming rulebook. Tech startups might celebrate individual expression as part of their company culture, while financial institutions typically demand a more conservative approach for their workplace. Having spent a few years in the financial industry myself, I’d add that the workplace has loosened up over recent years on facial grooming expectations. That said, if you can pull it off, the way to go is to still be clean shaven. A creative agency might appreciate a well-maintained beard that suggests artistic flair, whereas a corporate law firm could view the same facial hair as unprofessional. We’re going to discuss this further in the guide below. When deciding whether or not to shave for an interview, your goal is to understand these subtle professional ecosystems and navigate them strategically.

Consider the specific job you're applying for. An executive position might require a more polished look compared to a creative role that values individual expression. It's not about completely changing who you are, but about finding the sweet spot between personal style and professional expectations for the workplace.

Company's Grooming Policy

Nowadays, the typical company culture is becoming more flexible about personal appearance, but some still maintain strict grooming standards. Some organizations have explicit policies about facial hair, while others rely on more subtle cultural cues. Your initial goal should be to do some research about the workplace or company you are applying to. Look through company websites, social media, and if possible, reach out to current employees or your recruitment contact.

Pay attention to the company's visual branding, leadership team's appearance, and overall corporate culture. A startup with a casual dress code might be more accepting of creative facial hair, while a traditional corporate environment might expect a more conservative approach.

Social media is also a helpful tool. LinkedIn provides an unfiltered view of professional appearance in your target industry. Spend time analyzing profiles of professionals in similar roles, particularly those who work at your target company. Look for patterns in grooming styles, but remember, this is research, not a strict rulebook.

Your Personal Style and Comfort

If you're not comfortable with your look, trust me, it will show. I believe confidence is the most attractive accessory you can wear to an interview. Completely shaving off that stunning lion’s mane you had for 5 years for a perfectly clean shave may feel uncomfortable. Trying to get a nice chin strap going because you’re feeling adventurous before the interview may make you self conscious as you internally question your grooming choices during the interview. Your goal is to find a grooming approach that makes you feel like the most capable version of yourself. Understanding the unwritten grooming rules of different industries is like mastering a complex social language and your facial hair can be a powerful communication tool or an unexpected barrier, depending on where you're applying.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Facial hair is far more than a style choice, it's a deeply personal expression of identity that carries profound cultural and religious meanings. In some cultures, a full beard symbolizes wisdom and maturity. In some religions, it’s an expectation. Multiculturalism is expanding in the workplace, driving evolution in professional norms. Understanding these nuances demonstrates cultural intelligence and respect. Your facial hair can be a silent conversation about your background, your understanding of tradition, and your ability to bridge different cultural perspectives.

Perception of Facial Hair in Different Industries

When deciding whether or not to shave before an interview, it’s useful to consider each industry has its own unique language of professionalism. I’ll break them down below and drill into the facial hair grooming norms of key industries. 

Tech and Startup World

Here, facial hair is almost a form of creative expression. Think of the stereotypical Silicon Valley engineer with his carefully curated beard - it's less about conformity and more about individual brand. Companies like Google and Facebook have cultivated company cultures that celebrate personal style in the workplace. A well-maintained beard can signal creativity, independence, and the kind of innovative thinking these companies crave.

Finance and Corporate Law

This is where traditional professionalism reigns supreme. Investment banks and top-tier law firms typically favor a clean-shaven look or extremely minimal facial hair. The clean-cut appearance communicates precision, discipline, and the ability to conform to established norms. A perfectly trimmed, minimal stubble might be acceptable, but anything beyond that could be seen as a little edgy. Albeit, there are some corners of these industries that’ll embrace it!.

Creative Industries

Advertising agencies, design firms, and media companies often view facial hair as a canvas for personal branding. Here, a well maintained beard can be a symbol of creativity. It's less about conforming and more about expressing your unique professional identity. The key is being intentional. Your facial hair should look like a deliberate choice, not an afterthought.

Healthcare and Medical Fields 

This is where practicality truly meets professionalism. Many hospitals and medical institutions have strict grooming policies due to hygiene concerns. Surgeons and medical professionals often prefer clean-shaven looks or very short, well-maintained facial hair. It's about communicating cleanliness, precision, and a commitment to patient care.

Creative Tech and Media 

Companies like Spotify, Vice, or smaller creative tech firms often embrace a more relaxed approach to personal appearance. Your facial hair can be a conversation starter, a way to showcase your personality. But even in these more casual environments, the rule remains the same, it must look intentional and be presentable.

Construction and Trades

These industries often have a more practical approach to facial hair. A full beard might be seen as a sign of ruggedness and reliability. The key is ensuring it doesn't interfere with safety equipment or PPE such as protective masks.

Teaching and Education

Academic institutions vary widely. A university's computer science department might be more relaxed about facial hair compared to a conservative private school. The age group you're teaching and the institutional culture play significant roles in acceptable grooming standards.

The Professional Code 

Regardless of the industry, your facial hair should never be a distraction. Whether you're sporting a full beard in a creative agency or a minimal stubble in a corporate law firm, the goal is to look intentional, professional, and confident.

Your facial hair is more than just facial hair. It's an artistic form of subtle communication, a non-verbal language that speaks volumes before you even open your mouth. These industry-specific nuances aren’t about changing who you are, they’re about presenting the most professional version of yourself.

Pros and Cons of Shaving for an Interview

To shave or not to shave (for an interview), that is the question. I’ll break down the pros and cons as you prepare for that game-time moment. The last thing you want is to emerge from your pre-interview grooming looking like you've just wrestled a cactus or sporting a beard so wild you could have out-competed Tom Hanks for the lead role in Castaway. Both scenarios can end up being interview deal-breakers, so the key is finding that perfect grooming balance that lets your professional self shine through!

Pros of a Clean-Shaven Look

The psychology of a clean-shaven face runs deeper than surface-level appearance. Historically, a smooth face has been associated with youth, approachability, and professionalism. It can evoke a perception of trustworthiness and competence in many professional settings. Perhaps a subtle psychological hack that can work in your favor.

Beyond perception, a clean shave offers practical advantages. It eliminates potential distractions during interviews, allowing your skills and personality to take center stage. No stray hairs, no beard maintenance concerns, just a crisp, focused presentation of your professional self.

Cons of Shaving Before an Interview

Sometimes it's not just about aesthetics, it's about personal identity. If your beard is part of your personal brand, removing it can feel like wearing an ill-fitting suit that doesn't represent who you truly are.

Skin irritation presents another significant challenge. Last-minute shaving can lead to razor burn, ingrown hairs, and visible skin inflammation which is exactly the opposite of the polished look you're aiming for. Your face might become a roadmap of red bumps and irritation, potentially undermining your confidence during a critical professional moment.

Alternatives to a Full Shave and What Facial Hair Styles are Generally Okay

The professional world loves good personality, and your facial hair can reflect that. A carefully maintained stubble walks a perfect line between rugged and refined. Think of it as the professional equivalent of smart-casual - neither too formal nor too relaxed. Best to keep in mind which industry you're going after, and not to forget what may be significant to you culturally or religiously. 

Bonus Grooming Tips for a Polished Interview Look

Your grooming is the subtle art of presenting your professional best, whether that means a beard so sharp it could close deals or skin so smooth it could write its own resume. With the right preparation, you'll look as polished and precise as the answers you've carefully crafted.

Your Beard Appearance

Treat your facial hair like a professional accessory. Regular trimming, careful edging, and proper maintenance are essential. Invest in quality grooming tools and take the time to create clean, sharp lines. Your beard should look intentional, not accidental.

Pre-Interview Skincare 

Most of us guys, myself included, treat skincare like a foreign language we never plan on learning. We simply don’t get around to it. However, when an interview is coming, it’s a good idea to get into at least a temporary routine. Skincare is the foundation of your professional grooming appearance. Remember, different skin types require different approaches.

For those with sensitive skin, start your preparation days in advance. Gentle exfoliation, consistent hydration, and keeping it simple with skincare products to prevent last-minute breakouts or irritation. Moisturizers with minimal fragrance work best to keep your skin calm and clear.

Guys with oily skin should focus on balancing oil production. Light, non-comedogenic moisturizers and gentle cleansing can help create a matte, professional finish. Blotting papers can be a discreet way to manage shine during the interview.

Those with dry skin need intense hydration. Look for moisturizers with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Start hydrating several days before the interview to ensure your skin looks healthy and vibrant.

Aftershave

Subtlety is the way to keep it. If you choose to wear aftershave, opt for something light and clean - think fresh, not overwhelming. Many professionals recommend skipping cologne altogether to avoid potential allergies or sensitivities.

A light, neutral-scented moisturizer can provide the same fresh feeling without risking olfactory overload. Remember, you want to be memorable for your skills, not your scent.

The goal is to present a version of yourself that feels authentic, professional, and confident. Your facial hair is just one tool in that presentation.

Tailoring Your Look to the Job

Wondering whether or not to shave before a job interview shouldn’t be the only consideration. There are other critical factors that should be remembered as well, like the rest of your outfit! Dressing for an interview is less about fashion and more about fitting in without losing your edge. Whether it’s a suit that says “I mean business” or a casual look that whispers “I’m cool, but competent,” your grooming should tie it all together. Remember, no matter how perfect your outfit is, it’s your confidence and prep that seal the deal. Look the part, but don’t let your appearance do all the talking.

Dress Code Expectations

Professional appearance is a holistic concept. Your facial hair should harmonize with your entire professional presentation - like a well-composed musical piece where every element complements the others. It's not just about looking good; it's about looking intentional.

Research becomes your secret weapon. Social media, company websites, and professional networks offer visual clues about professional expectations. Pay attention to how current employees present themselves. Are leadership team members clean-shaven? Do creative professionals sport more relaxed facial styles? These visual cues are your roadmap.

Interview Material Preparation and Rehearsing

Your appearance sets the stage, but your preparation is the actual performance. Think of your grooming and presentation as the venue lighting. It creates the right atmosphere, but your content delivers the real value. Research about the company, understanding their challenges, and preparing compelling narratives about your professional journey will always outweigh any facial hair concerns.

Verbal Communication and Confident Speaking

Confidence transcends physical appearance. Your tone, body language, and ability to articulate your professional value matter more than whether you're clean-shaven or sporting a carefully trimmed beard. Practice your delivery, maintain strong eye contact, and let your passion shine through.

Interview Etiquette

Every detail matters in a professional setting. Your grooming is a form of non-verbal communication that can speak volumes before you even start talking. Be mindful, be intentional, and above all, be authentically you.

Final Thoughts: Should I Shave for an Interview?

There's no universal formula for interview-ready facial hair. I’ve spent most of my career in finance, and always went to job interviews clean-shaven. That’s how I felt most comfortable, and it often reflected what the typical facial hair culture of the company was anyways. - The ultimate goal is to feel confident, comfortable, and professionally appropriate. Your facial hair is just one component of the professional package you're presenting. If you’re looking to get a nice clean shave for your interview though, I’d recommend you check out our signature shaving cream at Clean Shave Society. It combines a lot of skin focused ingredients (which should help with the skin care regime) and is specifically formulated to dramatically reduce blade friction and irritation so you’ll look crisp and fresh for that job interview. 

Trust your instincts, do your research, and remember that confidence is your most powerful accessory. Whether you choose to shave or keep that carefully crafted beard, make sure it makes you feel like the most capable version of yourself.

Now go out there and crush that job interview! 

About the Author

Brandon, the founder of Clean Shave Society, transitioned from a career in finance to develop high-quality shaving products designed to reduce skin irritation. A travel and food enthusiast, he brings the same meticulous approach to personal grooming that he once applied to financial strategies, constantly seeking innovative ways to improve the shaving experience for men.