Ever ridden your bike to an interview?

[jahlive905]

I need some advice. Should I or shouldn't I?

The company seems quite relaxed and I was told explicitly not to wear a suit because I'd stand out. My journey would only be 30 minutes but does it seem too weird, carrying my helmet into the interview...?

 

[oldfatfool]

Not as weird as the full replica lycra kit

 

[Tim Hall]

Clip the helmet to your bike and leave it outside.

 

[mjr]

I don't see why not. I've ridden to press interviews, but I don't wear a helmet or lycra and stuff any of the few cycling comforts I am using (padded gloves, goggles when windy) into my bag when I near my destination if I'm likely to be seen arriving. Trouser clips come off quick and get stuffed into a pocket and I'd usually remove my hat when going indoors anyway.

 

[ianrauk]

I'n not sure they would mind if they are as you said, quite a relaxed company.

 

[PeteXXX]

It could work to your advantage and be a topic of conversation during your interview.
Go for it, but ride there slowly so you're not dripping with sweat!

I rode to my interview with the Royal Mail on my bike and the interviewer popped out to show me the best place to lock my bike.

 

[Debade]

I don't see why not. I've ridden to press interviews, but I don't wear a helmet or lycra and stuff any of the few cycling comforts I am using (padded gloves, goggles when windy) into my bag when I near my destination if I'm likely to be seen arriving. Trouser clips come off quick and get stuffed into a pocket and I'd usually remove my hat when going indoors anyway.

I think the quote is good advice. When I started my consulting business, I would bike to nearby clients. For first time clients, I would arrive early enough to freshen up a bit in the bathroom and bring a change of clothes (usually just a shirt unless it was a cold winter day) if I was concerned I would not look 'professional'. I can't remember a negative comment and typically it led to a good conversation starter.

 

[LCpl Boiled Egg]

It does seem weird. Why would you wear a helmet?

<runs away very, very quickly>

Seriously, if you've been told NOT to wear a suit, I think they'll be fine with you carrying a helmet in. Best of luck, and I hope it goes well.

 

[fossyant]

Just don't turn up covered in mud.

 

[Profpointy]

At the risk of going against the tide here, I'd be a little cautious. The postman case is very different as posties use (or at least did use) bikes on the job, so it would clearly help in that instance..

The real risk is coming over as someone trying to make a point - which isn't a good start as a job applicant.
Or them asking, "would he cycle to meet a customer and turn up in lycra" (or equivalent depending on the job).

Now, if you can chain up the bike round the corner, and just stroll in, looking tidy and unruffled, well then it's a non-question.

I'd certainly not ask the employer where to park your bike say, as there's the risk of them asking themselves if you'd then be a nuisance demanding cycle storage, or showers or whatever.

 

[annedonnelly]

I'd go for it. There's a good chance the first person you meet will be the receptionist. Just ask if you can leave your helmet with him/her. Just like you would with an umbrella or raincoat or even a suitcase.

 

[Katherine]

Good luck with your interview. Take something to put the helmet and other cycling accessories in. Leaving it with the receptionist as suggested above, sounds like a good plan. As is removing trouser clips before arrival.

 

[vickster]

Take some baby wipes and a tin of deo to freshen up

 

[MichaelW2]

I have cycled to several job interviews in a suit, locked my helmet with the bike and no-one new. No point was made.

 

[BrynCP]

I've interviewed a couple of people who came on bikes, and in their suits. I was more curious where they had locked their bike for security than the fact they had come on a bike. They left their helmets with the bike.