BLACK JOBSEEKERS have expressed fears that wearing their hair naturally or dressing like themselves or wearing their hair naturally will lead to discrimination at work according to a new survey.

According to a poll conducted by Creative Access, a diversity and social inclusion enterprise, job  applicants from underrepresented groups experience increased stress and confusion due to the lack of clear guidelines about appropriate workplace and interview attire.

Over 2,000 people across the UK workforce were surveyed for the research which aimed to highlight the experiences of job interviews and the workplace for individuals from different backgrounds. 

It found that 59% of Black candidates questioned worry that  ‘dressing like themselves’ or wearing their hair ‘naturally’ will result in discrimination at work. Almost a third (27%) of people from Black or minority ethnic backgrounds feel pressure to change their hair for an interview.

Almost half (48%) of respondents from lower socio-economic groups said they found navigating what to wear or how to style their hair for an interview challenging compared to just a third (36%) of those from the wider workforce.

Once they have been offered employment, employees continue to worry about discrimination based on their clothing and hairstyle choices.

Those with Afro-textured or curly hair are less confident in wearing their natural style in the workplace – with more than 1 in 10 (14%) believing it will have a negative impact on their career.

The research also found that those with naturally straight hair did not feel compelled to change their hair texture for interviews (86% said no), whilst a third of those with Afro-textured or curly hair (31%) feel compelled to change their hair texture.

More than 1 in 10 respondents with Afro-textured or curly hair felt they should cover their natural hair or wear a wig for interviews (15%).

The research also highlighted a lack of inclusivity at formal work events with 18% of respondents saying that traditional ‘black tie’ events aren’t inclusive.  One in five (20%) Black employees had turned down invitations to formal work events because they felt they did not have the right clothes

According to Creative Access, half (43%) of candidates surveyed say they have never received guidance on what to wear for a job interview or when starting a new job, yet 82% say they would find clear guidance helpful. Over half (55%) said they found the common dress code ‘smart casual’ confusing.

Bibi Hilton, CEO, Creative Access said:  “As we enter the busy post-summer recruitment period, this research shows how important it is for employers to provide clear guidance to candidates on all aspects of the recruitment process, including what to wear.

“Navigating vague or confusing dress codes or no dress code at all is adding an extra layer of unnecessary anxiety and our research shows is particularly impacting those from under-represented groups.”