o you have a gleaming resumé, extensive experience, impressive letters of recommendation and no job? Take a look at yourself. And not in the deeper sense of the saying. Literally, take a look at yourself. What do you see? Specifically, how is your hair? I’m not saying that your hair is stopping you from getting hired, but… Glance through these questions:

1. Do you have breakage from overstyling?
2. Can you hear your ends splitting?
3. Does your hair make a crunching sound like dry leaves?
4. Do you cut your own hair?
5. Do your roots have roots?
6. Would you describe your texture as sticky?
7. Do you have hair pieces that act as rubber bands?

If you can answer yes to any of these, stop reading and make an appointment with a new stylist because your hair isn’t cutting it.

	Consider the job you are going for and style your hair accordingly.

First Impressions Count

Don’t be fooled by the equal opportunity speeches of prospective employers. Believe me, they care what you look like and first impressions are important. Your hair is the first thing they see and, whether it's intentional or accidental (or for that matter, right or wrong), they will judge you by what they see on your head. So, you want a hairstyle that makes you look put together, but not like you are ready for a hot date. Curled and coifed is fine—an up-do secured with sparkly bobby pins, not so much. Whatever texture hair you possess or style you wear, make sure to bring it under control.

If you think back, you can remember teachers, classmates, colleagues, and friends who had unfortunate hairstyles—you do not want to be remembered as one of them. Take a cue from Melanie Griffith’s character, Tess, in Working Girl (if you haven’t had the pleasure, Netflix it immediately). During her character’s transformation from office schlep to big time exec, she realizes she must change her image to succeed in the business world. But she doesn’t sacrifice herself or her beliefs to get ahead—she just changes her 9-5 persona and her look, including that hair.

Tress for Success

All right, so here is your first assignment: call up a few stylists and make appointments for a hair consultation. Do not cut your own hair, like Tess—that tress for success was just movie magic. Call a professional. And while you are waiting for your appointment, start thinking about what you want your new style to communicate.

Job-Appropriate Hair

Consider the job you are going for and style your hair accordingly. If are trying to get a job as a personal trainer, think about a sleek, bouncy ponytail. The gym might have you give an impromptu session and they will be impressed that you look prepared. However, if you are interviewing for a position in a law firm, a ponytail may seem childish. Try a simple, classic chignon or slick, straight hair that seems manicured. They will appreciate your attention to detail.

Be Confident!

Above all, remember that the best way to get a job is to exude confidence. One way to accomplish that is to feel great about your appearance. Your last glance at the mirror on the way out the door shouldn’t leave you feeling like you can’t do any better. It should make you feel like there is no way anyone could look better than you do today. Your soon-to-be employer will see it, too. So, call your stylist to get the job done so you can get the job you want.