Why would they want a picture??
By katsmeow1213
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
United States
January 30, 2013 4:01pm CST
The moment I was home from work today, because I'd had a bad day, I got online and started job searching. I found a promising ad for a receptionist at a doctor's office. It's a bit of a drive.. less hours and less pay than I'm currently getting.. but at this point I don't care. I want a new job, and this is at least a job I've studied for in school. It will give me the experience I need to continue on a career path I studied for..
So I responded.. wrote a nice cover letter and sent my resume. I felt pretty good that I'd hear back and probably get the job.
Then I reread the ad, a little closer this time.. and it asked for cover letter, resume, and picture!!
My hope deflated. Why would they want a picture? The only thing I can imagine is that they're trying to only hire good looking people for their office instead of qualified people like myself. This means I probably won't get the job. I won't say I'm not good looking, but I'm not a cute, young thing which is what they're probably looking for if they want a picture. ARG!
I haven't seen any other promising ad in weeks.. and I've been looking daily. What's a job hunter to do?
6 people like this
10 responses
@WakeUpKitty (8694)
• Netherlands
30 Jan 13
It's normal to ask for a picture esp. if you need someon who is the "business card" for your company, in this case you are as a receptionist at the doctor's office.
It's not said they are looking for a young girl. Over here you won't find them, which is a good thing since many people feel way more comfortable with an eledery assistent/receptionist if they have to say why they need an appointment as with a 18 year old. So I would go for it and sell yourself! If you believe in it it will work.
2 people like this
@Kashmeresmycat (6369)
• United States
30 Jan 13
I would NEVER send a photo of myself to any employer..ever. If it's not illegal, it should be, just like they are not legally allowed to ask certain questions. You really have no idea who this is unless you go and drop off your application yourself, and if that's the case, they can take your drivers license and make a copy for a picture. At least you'd know they really exist. That is just downright creepy to me.
I just feel it is all wrong to do this.
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
• United States
31 Jan 13
I didn't send my photo.. I can't imagine why they'd want one other than to prove I have the right look for their office.
1 person likes this
@Kashmeresmycat (6369)
• United States
6 Mar 13
Thanks for BR katsmeow! I never knew..never was notified but I appreciate it! 
@GardenGerty (160663)
• United States
31 Jan 13
I can think of other reasons. Some good, some bad. They may be seeking a particular ethnicity, and that way do not have to ask. (bad reason) They may want to make sure that they are hiring a real person. ( good reason). They want to make sure that they are not hiring a "cute young thing" ( so so reason.) Go for it. At least they are not asking you to take your time coming in to see you, but will settle for a picture. No gas spent and no time taken. You will never know unless you try.
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
• United States
31 Jan 13
Well I didn't send the picture. I figure if they want to be sure I'm a real person they can call for an interview. You could be right on the ethnicity but that's just as illegal as hiring for looks. They shouldn't care who they hire as long as they hire someone capable.
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
• United States
31 Jan 13
No, probably not.. but not worth making a stink over either.
@cynthiann (18602)
• Jamaica
30 Jan 13
Asking for a picture is standaerd practice out here. Everything asks for one and I do have a few doubts though they say they atttach the photo to the resume. I don't know. It could go for or against yoiu. Go for it though as nothing ventured then nothing gained. I do hope that you get the job and am sorry that hyou are so unhappy where you are
@katsmeow1213 (28716)
• United States
31 Jan 13
I just don't understand what they'll think they'll learn from a picture except whether or not I have the right "look" for their office.
@wilsongoddard (7291)
• United States
31 Jan 13
That sort of request would make me suspicious of whether the job was even legitimate--especially depending on where I'd found the listing. Asking for a photo is not standard practice in the U.S.; the legality of it probably depends on the state.
@toyota4k (1208)
• Philippines
31 Jan 13
Some requirements would include "good looking character" if you are looking for a job. I guess they would prefer to prove it themselves if you claim you can pass that requirement.
@tiffnkeat (1673)
• Singapore
31 Jan 13
They do ask for photos sometimes where I am.
Let's assume that they really want a pretty face for the job, and IF you think you are not that cute, maybe it might save you time not to travel down for the interview. On the other hand, you might be surprised that they do consider you cute. :)
It is also a sign of sincerity to send your photo. In a way, you are telling them "This is what I look like", so if you do interview me, at least you know who you will be looking at.
No need to get your hopes deflated. You have done your part to submit the application. The work is now theirs to decide if you earn for yourself the interview, or even the job. I am sure everyone here wishes you well, and the best for you in your interview.
God bless.
@mariaperalta (19073)
• Mexico
30 Jan 13
Not to worry.. many office jobs ask for a photo with ones resume... at least they do here in Mexico. Good luck... hope you get the job...
