One natural hair meme that I’m sick of hearing is the oft-repeated and completely false idea that natural hair is unprofessional, or that being natural can cost you a potential job. Around the world there are doctors, lawyers, accountants, executives, politicians and CEOs who proudly wear their hair as they will, and are respected for the abilities regardless of their hairstyle.
So here’s the beginning of something new – Natural Professional, a monthly blog series brought to you by Curly Nikki and Afrobella. We’re looking to celebrate and share the stories of professional women in the workplace who are proud to wear their natural hair. Nikki put out a call for nominations back in January, and now we’re joining forces and putting the wheels into motion!
Are you a Natural Professional? Do you know someone who fits the description? Then please send an e mail to me using the subject like “Natural Professional,” or to nikki@curlynikki.com using ‘SuperNatural Saturday’ as the subject line. Please include the nominee’s name and a reliable email address.
Can’t wait to see your e mails!
No pics needed?
I have no idea how to contact her or if she would participate, but one of my favorite examples is Xerox CEO Ursula Burns! Remarkably bright engineer and effective leader.
http://news.xerox.com/pr/xerox/ursula-m-burns.aspx
I love this idea!!
I love this positive idea, how great to show achieved women with natural hair!
Yes, it’s definitely a great idea. I think that those of use who have these jobs know that hair doesn’t matter, but a lot of people who don’t are the ones spreading the idea that it is viewed negatively. If you have a great resume and a great education, the rest does not matter.
this is an amazing idea. looking forward to this series.
Anon, I think that you are right that capability should be the defining characteristic. However, I work in HR and have seen candidates of equal measure be judged by their appearance. People’s bias does affect hiring and advancement. And this includes bias about hair.
yes of course pics are needed! I should have clearly stated that. My apologies!
Thank you Blackbird821 for making that statement. After almost 20 years in the corporate world, and as an African American woman, I have seen trends come and go and I have seen more acceptance of diverse styles, once you are working for a company. However; it is important to note that there are still many in hiring positions who have very conservative views. Although I agree that it is frustrating and unfair to have to make certain considerations about your natural hair when you are black, I think neatness and cleanliness are major factors. Just as with clothing, a little conservatism can go a long way for an interview.
I agree with Lisamarie1215 comments. I think neatness, cleanliness and presentation should be more important. But I do not understand people sometimes because this is our hair, whether they like it or not. We are blessed that we can create different styles whether it be relaxed or natural. There are people of other races with kinky natural curly hair too. Sometimes I think our own people make it more of a big deal when it is just hair. People will always judge our appearance. Natural hair can be neat and professional.
Great idea! For all the reasons you just said!
This young woman immediately came to mind when I read this: Window Snyder, Chief of Security at Mozilla.
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/computersecurity/2008-06-17-mozilla-window-snyder_N.htm
After watching a YouTube video of a former law firm coworker say that she’s looking for a straight hair wig to wear on interviews because her natural hair is unprofessional, I think this is right on time.
I’m excited for this! I’m about to graduate from college and I want my hair to be natural and professional because I’m going to be working in an office next year. I’m excited to see the styles 🙂