Christmas presents are expensive and some people are so desperate for money that they need a second job, but trying to find a job around Christmas can be a hard task with so many people looking for work. If you manage to get an interview, however, a new study has shown that there is a way to increase your chances of getting the job.
A study conducted by the Employment Council of Ontario (ECO) shows that you are 89 per cent more likely to be hired if you wear a Christmas sweater to your job interview.
“[Wearing a festive sweater] simply makes people smile and remember you,” said Adam Johnston, a board member on the ECO. “When you wear a Christmas sweater to your interview around the holidays it shows that you are a team player and are someone that can get in the spirit of the holidays. Companies are looking for more people that are willing to put themselves out there in that way.”
The ECO did a survey with over 600 HR representatives from different companies between 2008 and 2014. They asked them to name some outfits that were appropriate for a job interview for both men and women. Christmas sweaters came in second place in the top five, right after blazers.
“I went to the ECO to find help getting a job. I was unemployed for three years at the time and I really needed their help,” said Debbie Marham, who is currently employed at Mown Brother’s Legal Aid. “I had many interviews but no luck finding a job before I visited ECO. They told me to wear a Christmas sweater to my interview. At first I thought it was nuts, but then I got my job three days after my interview.”
Although wearing Christmas sweaters to interviews has been proven to improve your chances of getting a job, some people are unhappy with the conclusion, claiming that hiring based on dress is discriminatory and leaves some people at a disadvantage.
“I have no money buy a sweater, and I think the whole thing is a waste of my time,” said Mark Dickson, who is currently unemployed. “I have taken courses on finding a job, and I think my knowledge alone to should get me the job. My grandma passed away last year, so I don’t have anyone to make me a sweater. Even if I could afford the $6.50 to buy a thrift store sweater, they’re always sold out at this time of year. What am I supposed to do, wait a whole year to find a job?”