By now many folks have at least heard about the online dating site that accepts only the people its existing members deem as “beautiful.” Members get to vote yes or no after someone requests a membership and the applicant then waits to hear if they are attractive enough to make the cut. Wow, talk about an intimidating audition- this one doesn’t want to know anything about who you are on the inside, it’s only your physical appearance that matters. The word shallow comes to mind and it’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to be a member here- but they do. Sort of like high school competition on steroids. Just imagine all the awesome folks you wouldn’t get to meet there.
Now beautifulpeople.com is offering a job recruitment service to their 750,000 members. Apparently looks do matter to employers looking for folks to audition as reality stars or hire as eye candy for their offices and clients, and perhaps as sales people that could use their looks to help close deals. In the short time this feature has been up they have had many inquiries and listings posted by perspective employers, so it’s possible the unemployment rate may really be lower for beautiful people than the rest of us.
We all know that looks matter in social and work environments. The best looking get the most attention and priority. Those who are not “beautiful” have to work for it- using brains, talent and determination to get to the front of the line. I remember in a past life when I was responsible for hiring qualified people into the department I was the director of. As I recall a neat and appropriate appearance was my only physical criteria for candidates. I was much more interested in experience, personality, attitude and references from past employers- and can’t imagine managing staff who aren’t a good fit in these areas.
If you aren’t a beautiful person, take heart. This world will always need competent, caring, efficient, hard working, bright, and well-educated people to fill the roles of employees, friends, lovers, parents, leaders, thinkers, and movers and shakers. The demand for people like you is huge and there are many opportunities for those who are willing to take risks, word hard, and reach for their dreams. Take a moment to honestly ask yourself if you would really want to pay the price required to join this club? Then give thanks that you have truly left adolescence behind you.
