Forward facing basics
I used to hear the terms “forward facing” and “client facing” used by recruiters in reference to interviewee appearance. If a potential new employee will work hidden somewhere in a cubicle, that is not forward facing work.
But what about employees who meet with clients or anyone outside the company on a regular basis? Or ones responsible for being the face of the company, as in reception work. If that’s the case, then they are in a forward facing or client facing job.
In practice, looks often matter to an employer when hiring someone for any job, But in many companies there is particular attention paid to a candidate’s looks. Especially when public contact work is part of the job description.
Forward facing might be a secret
Most companies won’t admit to what extent they mention the client facing requirement to recruiters or interviewers. Clearly, they don’t want to be accused of hiring discrimination. Or identified with it in any way. But it does happen. Still, even today.
And even without this being discussed, some recruiter / interviewers choose to err on the side of good looks just to play it safe. But whatever the case, forewarned is forearmed.
That said … even if you aren’t a perfect 10 (as if anyone really is), being well groomed, having good energy, and a great smile can still get you far when it comes to these kinds of positions. The rest is out of your control. And who wants to work for someone that uptight anyway? 🙂
Also see:
⇒ What Is FOA in Job Interviews?
⇒ What Is Age Discrimination in Employment?
**COVID NOTE**
In relation to the Coronavirus / COVID-19 situation, since “forward facing jobs” are those jobs where you have direct, often close-up contact with the public this raised additional issues when looking for a job. For many job seekers that became a problem (and still may be for some) especially with employers who don’t allow masking.
Has this been an issue for you? Are you someone immunocompromised who has been kept from a forward-facing job because the employer is against masking? Please feel free to share you story.
It’s times like this one really sees how valuable they are to their employer. IMO any employer who chooses to ignore what the Kentucky Governor ordered has no respect for authority, so why are they in authority over employees? I say, “you’re fired”!
“It’s times like this one really sees how valuable they are to their employer. ” Well said and so true! Thanks for adding your voice to the conversation, suzie.
I’m here because the CEO of the hospital where I work sent out a email yesterday saying that all “front facing” employees will be getting a bonus cheque, so I’m wondering if it only applies to nurses and nursing staffs. I think it would be unfair because other employees who risk their health and their family members by going to work in this pandemic deserves something too.
That sounds like they are talking about anyone dealing directly with the public, so not sure if you are included in that. But agree that everyone making these lifesaving services possible deserves to be recognized in some way.
And if that isn’t possible now, maybe down the road this will be considered. In any event … please know how much we THANK YOU for what you are making possible!!
Be safe. Be well.
According to the Governor of Kentucky, all forward facing businesses should be closed. I work for a car dealership and we are open. Who can I contact to get something done about this?
As I said, Matthew, this is not my area of expertise. Found this online. Maybe a place to start. Good luck and be well!
COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725
“The COVID-19 hotline is a service operated by the healthcare professionals at the KY Poison Control Center who can provide advice and answer questions. Please be patient as we are handling a high volume of calls and want to give everyone the time they deserve. For general information, please review the website prior to calling the hotline. Guidance is being added as it becomes available.”
WEBSITE: KYCOVID!9.ky.gov
What gets me is how much we don’t know yet. Like how long this is going to go on. Nobody knows the answer but we have to go on. It’s scary. And I don’t know where to turn for answers. So much bad information out there. Also worried I won’t have a job after this is over. Don’t knwo what else to say but thank you for letting me say it. I pray a lot.