Dear Carmen Courtesy:

I am the office manager for a surgical practice. I'm currently in the process of hiring a new receptionist to work at our front desk. I have met with a candidate that I feel would be a very good worker and fit in well in our small office. The only problem: she doesn't have a polished look. Do you think I should approach her about how I would like employees to present themselves to patients, the general public, etc.?

Sincerely,

- Present Tense

Dear Tense:

Go ahead, tell 'em what to wear. With all the rants we hear about co-workers showing up in cut offs, halter tops and flip flops, it's refreshing to hear someone who is concerned enough about office presentation to want to raise the issue before the job offer is made.

I certainly don't think you should hesitate in discussing appropriate attire, attitude and personal presentation skills with any candidate you're considering for such a visible position. This receptionist will be the first person your patients and potential patients will see so it's entirely acceptable to discuss your expectations regarding his or her appearance. In fact, I had a friend once who was up for a sales job at a very high-end department store. She almost didn't get the job until the sales manager finally got up the courage to tell her she ought to wear face powder because her complexion was shiny. Fortunately, the manager made the suggestion, my friend aced her second interview and today she's one of the top sellers in the ladies ready to wear department.

Perhaps this whole question says a little bit about the importance of personality over appearance. Present Tense thinks this candidate would be ideal for the job, expect for the lack of a polished image. But with a few guided tips about dressing and presentation (and perhaps a sprinkling of face powder?) you may be able to transform this potential hire into the perfect receptionist and maybe, just maybe, provide a path for this person's future professional success.

Electronically yours,