Mustache Question?

[MNTruckee]

This may seem like a goofy question, but I see and hear alot of talk about it and now I am not quite sure what to do so I'm looking for some advise.
I have heard it is a good idea to have absolutely no facial hair when you are young and testing for a fulltime fire job, I am a 33 yo career Firefighter/Medic with a neatly trimmed mustache and now I am looking at changing departments. Do I shave or not? Does it make a difference if it is a lateral position or a entry level position? I know this is probably the dumbest question ever posted but I would appreciate any feedback.

Thanks and stay safe.

[CaptBob]

Good question. Even though you’re going for a lateral position you are still considered you’re applying for an entry-level snott nose rookie position.

In that first 32 seconds of your oral board you come in with what’s called the “halo” effect. In the first few moments when you walk in the interview room the panel makes instant click decision on what you’re wearing (the strongest non verbal mistake you can make is what you’re wearing), your physical appearance, eye contact, voice, eye contact, body language, inflection, and choice of words.

Beards are out; mustaches are a gray area. When in doubt, shave it off. Are you willing to take the chance that it won’t make a difference?

When my son was trying to become a firefighter I begged him to shave off his mustache. He said Dad this took me 26-years to grow and I’m not going to shave it off. He got hired. He got married and his wife made him shave it off. Go figure.

[wag11c]

Why cultivate something under your nose that grows wild on your A-hole? Ditch the stash.

[BCLepore]

I disagree. A neatly trimmed moustache for a currently employed fire medic is no problem. Make sure it is clearly within the uniform standards.

Good luck in your endeavors!
Paul Lepore
Battalion Chief
www.aspiringfirefighters.com