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I have a good candidate from interviewing for a Sales position, however the only issue I have is that she has a tongue piercing. Whilst the actual piercing is of little concern to me and obviously hidden in her mouth, it does affect her voice. She would be making a lot of telephone calls and meeting our high profile Clients etc... Can I ask her to remove it?I don't have a policy that states you can't wear tongue piercings, however I've posted our policy below! Please could you advise how I handle this sensitively and correctly whilst remaining fair and balanced! As I say, my single issue is that it affects her voice!7. CONDUCT, DRESS & APPEARANCE POLICYYou are expected to conduct yourself at all times in the manner expected of anyone working for a professional and reputable organisation. You are required to maintain a well-groomed appearance. Hair must be kept neat and tidy; unconventional hair colouring or styling is not acceptable. If you are unable to adhere to the grooming or dress code you should discuss the matter with your Manager. Exceptions may be made in special circumstances, such as cultural or religious requirements.
Optional Information: State/Country relating to question: United Kingdom Already Tried: internet has helped but need someone to clarify!
Hello and thank you for your question, which I will be happy to assist you with. Please let me know if she refuses to remove it would you reject her for the job~?
Hi Ben, I may have to reject her from the job as sadly it requires a lot of telephone conversing and as I said, it affects her voice. I do have her and 1 other candidate at final stage.
There is no right or wrong way in which to approach this because no one can predict the person's reaction or how they will perceive your requests. As such, it is best to approach this with a degree of sensitivity, just as any 'normal' person would do and perhaps bring the issue that whilst you have absolutely no issue with her having a tongue piercing you are concerned about its effects on certain aspects of her job. Say that you are happy for her to wear it at all other times, there are specific times when you would request she does not. At the same time praise her credentials and experience and confirm that she is good for the job.
If she refuses, then you have to consider if you are going to reject her based on that. If you do, at least you know that you will not be acting unlawfully as this is not a discriminatory reason (unless it was there for a religious reason for example, which she will have a difficult time arguing).
OK, that's great ~ thanks Ben
My pleasure
Experience: Expert in UK Employment Law