So I've got this really amazing job working as a hotel receptionist. I've been there for a little while but I've now got a new boss. He said that I need to cut my waist length hair really short as all the customers see me when they arrive. I don't know why but he really wants my hair cut super short. He said that if I don't cut it by next week I will loose my job and that they will get another girl with short hair for my job. Can they do this? I love my job and I don't want to loose it. Shall I cut it all of to keep my job. Is it worth it? This is me now
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+1 y
So basically I gave in and just cut all my hair off to a pixie cut. Thanks for everyones opinion but I couldn't be bothered for the hassle of suing them. Please answer my new question
I don't know where you're from, but in the UK, the Human Rights Act gives you the freedom of self-expression, so it would be up to the employer to demonstrate that your long hair is detrimental to business, or you could sue them for unfair dismissal (but only if you've had the job for 2+ years, and obviously only if they actually fire you).
Personally, I think your hair looks absolutely gorgeous, but I can also see that it doesn't look very "corporate", so it's not unreasonable for an employer to want you to cut it shorter. However, they would be expected to come to a reasonable compromise - ie. allow you any kind of professional looking hairstyle - rather than just firing you straight away.
The problem of course, is that you'd have to go to a tribunal, and it would all be a lot of hassle, with no guarantee of success. You might get your job back (plus compensation), or the threat of taking them to court might make them back down - but they'll just be looking for a reason to fire you, and the first tiny slip up from you, and you'll be gone.
It's just a shame they're being so unreasonable, because it's not fair and your hair really does look amazing.
There should be a dress code IN WRITING. If so, ask to see it. See what the official policy of your employer is and that is what you are supposed to follow. You "boss" is your supervisor, but he is not your dictator. He has rules to follow also, and people to answer to. So if you are in accordance with any dress code, he risks a lawsuit against the hotel if he takes any action against you.
Unfortunately, if there is no dress code in writing, then the hotel can do what it pleases. But there may still be someone higher that would disagree with him. Best I can offer.
Huh? That's crazy. I've worked as a receptionist too, I wasn't asked to cut my hair short. I have long hair. I would tie my hair in an elegant bun, ponytail, or style it the way I wanted. Your boss is really weird if he asked you to cut your hair super short,
if nothing works try a fake bob. your boss will think that you cut it and you'll only have to spend 5 extra minutes in the morning to style the fake bob, but at the end of the work day you can still rock your long hair! :)
Can't you compromise and tell your boss you'll wear it in a bun or something? I don't get it >_< Your hair is beautiful so it beats me why someone would make you cut it.
Well, that's a really tough choice actually. Haircut should never be done under pressure, you shouldn't cut your hair under pressure or with the fear of losing your job, you should cut your hair if it makes you happy, however since he is your employer I guess you can't argue much with him because he has the power (professionally). Hence, if you want to keep your hairstyle then go ahead but then be prepared to face the consequences. I know you love this job, your hair is long no doubt but it seems like you also love your hair so why don't you go for a job which doesn't have hairstyle restrictions?
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Anonymous
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+1 y
Wow not only is your hair gorgeous so is the rest of you! I don't believe he can fire you for having hair that he doesn't like, but if he does your only real action would be to get a lawyer and sue. I have had bosses like this before, believe me it won't stop at the hair.
Bosses like this are control freaks who take joy in spreading misery. The only reason he is trying to force you to cut your hair is he knows you love it. Of he knows you like socializing with certain co workers he will fix the schedule so you aren't working together, any joy you have in your job or personal life he will try and take away.
I would try complaining to HR, or corporate. That probably won't work. I know it's not fair, but I would try and save myself some fee of and start looking for another job.
Business are like small dictatorial countries. Each one have their internal rules and you have to fallow them If you wanna keep your job. You should check if there is any specific rule that say you should have your hair short, If is not the case I guest you can sue him your boss.
HELL NO. id never agree to such stupidity. putting ur hair in a bun isn't an impossible solution. id tell him that he can forget about me working there. I'm not that desperate.
If there is no health and safety reason to cut your hair i am not sure your boss can order you to cut it. This may be discriminatory. Is there a dress code in your employment agreement? If not I do not think he can issue this request.
It sounds like it's for some sort of fetish or something. A guy like this will only get worse. There's no reason to cut your hair. I suggest you put up a fight and if they fire you you can sue them (unless it's in the job requirements.)
But you can complain to those people, I don't know where you live but there are people who ensure you get correct justice for work. Like if you get fired for the wrong reason or something, you complain to them and they get in contact with your company and try and solve the issue.
Then he's a dick. And you should look for a job elsewhere. Especially if he's not willing to compromise. Maybe he just likes short haired women and that's all he wants to see.
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