This thread sure took the wrong turn from the word go.
Actually it is a serious issue in our politically correct world.
At a recent video call interview for a position, the candidates comes on but did not groom his hair and appeared in t-shirt. He however was qualified. Despite our practice not to comment on appearance, I thought it best to advise himand told him politely so he passes the corporate values interview with HR. He eventually withdrew as he changed his mind over moving from the States. Or that's what he told us.
We get these situations sometimes - hair colour, piercings, grooming and dress sense which are not the usual or expected of most companies in that position. HR has advised not to bring it up for obvious reasons and the person never gets hired. I felt otherwise as some are well qualified, young and have potential.
We also have this among staff who stagnate because of their appearance and no one tells them.
So how do you tell someone that his or her hairstyle, appearance, dress sense might not help?