Originally Posted by KnoxMom:
Thank you for your feedback! I guess I'm always a little apprehensive because I'm on the young side (under 30) and look even younger (constantly asked my age). Until parents actually meet me and hear me explain my teaching philosophy and the time I put into choosing a curriculum and educational approach, some of them have a hard time taking me seriously. At the end of an interview, the comment is made that they were "pleasantly surprised with my knowledge/experience because I look like a baby myself". Sure, it will pay off when I'm 50, but for now I fear that it will hurt me professionally. I always make a point to dress conservatively and sophisticated; sometimes I even wear my glasses to interviews as it seems to help me 'look my age'. Right or wrong, people do make assumptions based on looks and this is what has worked for me in the past. Do you think I should change my line of thinking? Should I explain about myself and leave out a picture? I have SO many questions... This is an area I have struggled with since opening bc I DO want parents to get to know me and make that human connection as you discussed.
I think you are right. People definitely have their own preconceived notions of what other's should look like in certain roles and professions.
What I would do if I were in your shoes is compromise. Just write up a little bio about you and how you got into the field and what keeps you here or about your journey....the things you've accomplished and those you still strive for... but leave the picture out.
NOT because you should be embarrassed or ashamed of looking so young (
) but because I totally support and agree with you about people making their first assumptions off of what they see verses what you are saying to them.
