The surprising reason millennials won’t get hired
Kelli B. Grant | @kelligrant
Monday, 30 Jun 2014 | 12:01 AM ETCNBC.com
Millennials are famously unemployed and underemployed, but the reason may not entirely be the so-so job market. Or gaps in their college education.
It could be their body odor.
In the Bank of America Trends in Consumer Mobility report, released Monday, surveyors asked 1,000 adults about the importance of various items in their daily lives. Among millennials, 93 percent said a smartphone was “very” or “somewhat” important, making it the most important item for that age group. Fewer—87 percent—said deodorant was of daily importance, and 91 percent, a toothbrush.
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It’s a departure from older generations. Among all adults surveyed, deodorant and smartphones were deemed equally important in daily life, at 91 percent, while the toothbrush got top ranking, with 95 percent saying it’s a daily must.
That differential stinks for grads’ employment prospects.
“Research on first impressions shows people look at not just how you comport yourself, but how you present yourself,” said Susan RoAne, author of “How to Work a Room.” Advice on job interviews often emphasizes presentable clothes and a trim haircut, but fresh breath and a clean scent are must-haves, too. (She also tells attendees of her networking presentations to skip odorous foods like onions and garlic before important interactions.)
“If people can smell you before they see you, you aren’t getting the job,” said RoAne. Slip into bad hygiene habits after getting hired, and you’re not likely to get promoted, or last in a position that involves face-to-face contact with executives or clients.
