More than half of hiring managers admit that a job candidate’s physical appearance influences their hiring decisions, according to a recent survey that reveals widespread discrimination in the workplace.
The August survey of 882 hiring managers in the United States found that 53 per cent make hiring decisions based on physical traits like facial attractiveness, body type, race and hair colour — practices that may violate employment laws.
Among managers who consider physical traits, 40 per cent said they would hire a conventionally attractive candidate with a good resume over someone less attractive with an outstanding resume.
“It helps to sell products,” one manager wrote in response to the survey by ResumeTemplates.com.
Nearly half of these managers — 47 per cent — have hired someone primarily because of their appearance. More than one-quarter judge female candidates more harshly on traits like attractiveness, weight and age.
“Bias toward physical traits is often subtle and goes unnoticed unless someone has received training to recognize it,” says Julia Toothacre, ResumeTemplates.com’s chief career strategist. “For many, this bias operates under the surface until it’s brought to their attention. It’s natural for us to gravitate toward people who look like us, sound like us, or have features we find appealing.”
Racial bias widespread
The survey found troubling evidence of racial discrimination. Among hiring managers who admit to racial preferences, 86 per cent said they prefer to hire white candidates.
Body type or weight influenced hiring decisions for 55 per cent of managers who consider physical traits, while 47 per cent factored in facial attractiveness. About 25 per cent considered height, 22 per cent cited race or skin tone, and 21 per cent looked at hair colour.
Managers link looks to competence
Most hiring managers who consider physical traits — 85 per cent — said they form impressions about a candidate’s competence based on appearance. More than half believed physical traits reflect professionalism or attention to detail.
“Physical appearance sometimes influences psychological assessment,” one manager wrote.
Another admitted: “I don’t think I want to, but I think I subconsciously take them into account.”
Pre-screening by photos
More than half of managers who weigh physical traits look up candidates online before interviews to see what they look like. Over one-third have rejected someone based on their photo alone.
“Decades of research shows that conventionally attractive people are often perceived as more competent, capable, and likable,” said Toothacre.
Nearly half of surveyed managers — 48 per cent — said the current political climate has made them more comfortable considering a candidate’s physical traits during hiring.
The trend appears stronger among certain groups. Male hiring managers were more likely than women to say physical traits impact their decisions (61 per cent versus 46 per cent). Sales industry managers were most likely to factor in physical features.
The survey was conducted using the Pollfish platform with respondents from companies with 11 or more employees. All participants held managerial roles, earned at least $50,000 annually and had college degrees.
