Bigfatjeebus:
The economy is brutal right now, and I imagine some of us really big guys might have been having employment struggles (im 5ft 6 and 510). Im not having these issues, but im trying to help those that do.
Specifically im looking for:
How to combat size discrimination in hiring
What types of jobs to look for in the advent of AI
How to dress if your a larger person for an interview
Hi! HR person here funnily enough! I'll do my best here:
How to combat size discrimination in hiring: Few things here, ironically easiest is thing to do is whenever possible, interview virtually, as for ssbb folks its easier to hide in camera angles vs IRL. How you dress is important, I'll touch on it below. Big vs. Small company can vary: some small companies suffer from 'like-me' bias in hiring moreso than large corporations, however on the flip side small companies with larger folks on staff may be more welcoming vs. Large corps, it really depends on your local area/business in question. Also, eat before your interview!! Obviously, dont overstuff yourself, but having your big belly audibly rumble during an interview wont help against size discrimination. BIGGEST TIP: Come prepared. Aside from being physically daunting, the hardest stereotype to overcome as a fat person in a hiring competition is perceived laziness. By studying up, knowing company history, weaving corporate values into your answers of their questions, having specific questions based off the job description and being punctual, will not only make a great impression, but will help overcome any stereotypes regarding laziness.
What types of jobs to look for in the advent of AI: Less about specific jobs, more about industries here, focus on industries, regardless of position where they deal with sensitive data, as regardless of role, they will likely have large sweeping policies preventing AI use for data protection. Some that come to mind are: government, health care, social services, anything with kids, law/law enforcement, organizations serving marginalized groups. The tech industry will be the first (already is the first) to replace people with AI, so I would personally avoid. Next would be to look at jobs AI cant replace, which is often physical labor (not ideal in our community), jobs that need to be done in person, or jobs that deal with managing people.
How to dress if your a larger person for an interview: Wear clothes that fit!!! I know this is way easier said than done for fat folks, but avoid clothes that show skin where it typically shouldn't be shown (gaping buttons, shirts that show your belly if you raise your arms), that are so tight they strain or look like you could burst out of them, as well as clothes that are too big (look either bigger than you are, or like you are ready to lounge/relax as opposed to work). Be comfortable, but not ready to stuff yourself and not leave the house lol. Make sure your clothes are clean, in reasonable condition (dont need to be new, but dont look like they are near the end of their days), no food stains. Keep your face/hair clean/groomed. Your interviewer won't care if your shirt is tucked in or not, belt on or under your belly, as long as the look is clean and intentional looking. No graphic tshirts, jeans are fine as long as they have no holes, if wearing shorts ensure they are formal (not cargo).
