Cologne And Job Interviews: To Wear Or Not?

Wearing cologne to a job interview is a controversial topic. While some people believe that it is essential to smell good and make a positive first impression, others argue that cologne can be distracting and even offensive to the interviewer. Some HR professionals advise against wearing cologne to job interviews, citing the potential for scent sensitivities and allergies in interviewers, which could negatively impact the interview. However, others suggest that a light application of cologne, applied just before the interview, can boost confidence and enhance one's chances of success.

Allergies and asthma

When it comes to job interviews, it is generally advised not to wear cologne or perfume. This is because fragrances can trigger allergies and asthma in some people.

Some individuals experience fragrance sensitivity, which is when their airways are irritated by ingredients or chemicals in natural or manufactured scents. While it is not a true allergy, it can irritate the respiratory tract and mucous membranes of the eyes, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes. Fragrance sensitivity can also trigger an allergic response or an asthma attack.

Perfumes and colognes are common triggers for fragrance sensitivity and asthma. The chemicals derived from coal tar and petrol in perfumes, as well as the additives in aerosol body sprays, can be particularly irritating. These strong scents can cause coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, throat irritation, headaches, and even skin reactions.

To avoid triggering fragrance sensitivity and asthma, it is recommended to opt for natural scents or essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. Natural scents derived from plants, such as flowers, herbs, spices, and fruits, often have a simpler composition and are free from synthetic chemicals, reducing the potential for triggering asthma symptoms.

Additionally, it is important to be mindful of others when wearing fragrances. Many workplaces have scent-free policies to accommodate employees and visitors who are sensitive to scents. When attending a job interview, it is best to avoid wearing cologne or perfume to reduce the risk of triggering allergies or asthma and to ensure you make a positive impression on the interviewer.

Scent-free workplaces

While wearing cologne to a job interview may seem like a good idea, it is best to avoid it. Many workplaces have scent-free policies due to employees' allergies and sensitivities. Exposure to fragranced products can make it difficult or impossible for some employees to function effectively at work. Fragrance sensitivity can cause irritation or an allergic reaction, with symptoms such as breathing difficulties, headaches, nausea, hives, and limitations in memory and concentration.

A scent-free workplace is one where employees are prohibited from bringing onto the premises any natural or artificial scents that could be distracting or irritating to others. This includes scented personal products such as colognes, perfumes, aftershaves, lotions, and powders, as well as other scented items like candles, air fresheners, and potpourri.

Some ways to implement a scent-free workplace policy include:

• Developing, implementing, and enforcing the policy in a similar way to any other employment policy.
• Using clear and specific language, such as specifying that all offices and spaces used by staff and their visitors should remain free of scented products.
• Informing employees and visitors about the policy through signs, emails, and other forms of communication.
• Including a sample email signature for guests, such as "This is a fragrance-free workplace. Thank you for not wearing any of the following during your visit: cologne, perfume, aftershave lotion, scented hand lotion, fragranced hair products, and/or similar products."
• Handling any violations through the standard disciplinary procedure.

It is important to note that a 100% fragrance-free environment may not be feasible or reasonable, but steps can be taken to limit overall exposure to fragrances at work. For example, employers can start by implementing a policy related to products used in the workplace, such as banning the use of plug-in air fresheners, scented candles, and aerosol sprays, while also requesting that employees refrain from wearing scents into the workplace.

By implementing and enforcing a scent-free workplace policy, employers can create a healthier and more inclusive environment for all employees.

Smelling good without cologne

While wearing cologne can make you feel good and boost your confidence, it is not always advisable, especially when going for a job interview. This is because people have different preferences and reactions to scents. Some people are allergic to strong scents and get migraines or headaches from perfume and cologne.

Practice Good Hygiene

Take regular showers or baths to wash away dirt, oil, and sweat, which can cause body odour. Also, ensure you wear clean clothes.

Reduce Body and Facial Hair

According to Dr Jennifer MacGregor, an NYC-based, board-certified dermatologist, "hair doesn't cause smell, but [it] increases the surface area for bacteria to live and make their smells with your sweat".

Use Deodorant

Apply deodorant to reduce scent levels. Look for aluminium-free, natural deodorants that prevent sweat and odour instead of merely masking it.

Brush and Floss

Keep your teeth healthy and breath fresh by brushing and flossing at least twice a day.

Use Mouthwash

Keep a travel-size bottle of mouthwash in your car or bag for emergencies.

Drink Water

Water dilutes unpleasant scents from foods like garlic, onions, and coffee. It also keeps your body healthy and odour-free.

Be Mindful of Your Diet

According to Dr Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist, "our body odour is determined by a variety of factors, including our diet, level of sweat, frequency of bathing, and the natural collection of bacteria on the skin". He also noted that "studies have shown that eating a carbohydrate-rich diet may lead to unpleasant-smelling sweat, while meat, eggs, and tofu were associated with more pleasant-smelling sweat".

Use Body Wash or Premium Body Bar

Body washes and premium body bars with natural ingredients will give your skin a nice, subtle scent and keep it clean, healthy, and moisturised.

Use Lemon Juice as a Cologne-Free Fragrance

Fresh, organic lemon juice offers a chemical-free, refreshing alternative to cologne. Lemon also contains citric acid, which kills odour-causing bacteria on the skin. However, use lemon with caution, as it can irritate the skin. Always do a patch test, and do not apply lemon juice to freshly shaved or irritated skin.

Use Natural Body Spray

Opt for a top-notch natural body spray over cologne, which can be overpowering and skin-drying. Look for natural ingredients like peppermint and spearmint oils, which provide a burst of freshness and combat odour-causing bacteria.

Use Shoe and Foot Spray

Use a good foot deodorant to keep your feet from stinking and a shoe spray to remove odour and bacteria from your shoes.

Place Cedar Wood Chips in Your Shoes

Cedar wood absorbs unpleasant odours and imparts a natural, earthy aroma.

The effect of cologne on confidence

Cologne can be a powerful tool for boosting self-esteem and confidence. It has been associated with positive feelings of attractiveness, status, and self-esteem. The sense of smell is strongly linked to emotional memories, and a particular cologne can evoke positive memories and feelings of confidence and motivation.

However, when it comes to job interviews, wearing cologne can be a risky choice. While cologne can make you feel more confident and positive, it can also have a negative impact on your interviewer, which could damage your chances of getting the job.

The sense of smell is highly subjective and personal, and what you find pleasing may be repellent to someone else. Some people are allergic or sensitive to certain scents, and even a small amount of cologne can trigger allergies, migraines, or headaches. The interviewer will be trapped in a room with you, and if the cologne bothers them, it may cut the interview short.

To avoid this, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing cologne to a job interview. However, if cologne is a crucial part of your daily routine and you feel it gives you an edge, there are some steps you can take to minimise the risk. Firstly, opt for a light, soft fragrance with citrus, floral, or fruity notes, and avoid strong opening or base notes. Apply just one spritz to the back of your ear or your knees to restrict the scent. You can also apply the cologne 15-30 minutes before the interview, so it has time to settle and won't be overwhelming.

In conclusion, while cologne can positively impact your confidence, it's important to be mindful of others' preferences and potential allergies. When it comes to job interviews, it's best to err on the side of caution and go easy on the cologne or avoid it altogether.

How much cologne is too much?

It is generally recommended that you avoid wearing cologne to a job interview. This is because fragrances are a common cause of allergies and sensitivities, and you run the risk of your interviewer being allergic to your cologne. Even if they are not allergic, your interviewer may simply dislike the scent, or find it irritating or distracting.

If you feel that wearing cologne makes you more confident, it is best to only apply a small amount. One or two spritzes at most, applied to the back of your ear or behind your knees, will restrict the scent to yourself. It is also recommended that you apply cologne 15-30 minutes before the interview, giving you time to reach the location and touch up in the bathroom if needed.

However, it is important to remember that some workplaces have a no-scent policy, and some interviewers may consider wearing cologne to an interview unprofessional. It is always best to err on the side of caution and skip the cologne altogether.

• Dress one step up from the prevailing norms at your prospective employer.
• Practice common interview questions to help you feel more confident and prepared.
• Make sure you know something about the company and the role you are applying for.
• Be friendly and smile when you meet the interviewer.
• Ask questions during the interview to show your interest in the role and the company.

Frequently asked questions