TO HOOT OR NOT TO HOOT

As a career advisor, I’m not easily stumped by clients’ questions.  Ask me anything about careers, job search, skills, interests and values, and I’ll reply with an articulate and often insightful response. That was until I got the Hooter’s question.

“Should I put Hooters on my resume?” a young woman pursuing an education degree asked.

I couldn’t help it.  Upon hearing that name, visions of a blonde bimbo with 38D breast implants and abs and buns of steel popped into my head.  Strange how one word conjured such a powerful image in split seconds.  I’m sure Hooters corporate would be delighted with their success at branding.

“Hmmm, I’ve never been left speechless before,” I replied.  “Instead of telling you what I  suggest, let me ask some of my employer friends what they think before I give you my answer.”

A very unscientific sampling provided these results. 

One employer stated that it depends on the industry in which the client wants to pursue employment. Serving at Hooters could demonstrate that the woman handled herself confidently which is a positive. In other words, if you’re applying to be a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, by all means put Hooters on your resume.

An elementary school principal recommended that the client NOT put the experience on her resume.  Another advisor suggested putting the experience on the resume but leaving the name of the restaurant off since it might be perceived as a negative depending on the employer.

I always think it's wise to avoid putting anything on a resume that smacks of controversy, since you can never be quite sure who your audience might be. Depending on the employer, being a server at Hooters, a member of the NRA or the Sierra Club, or even a Boy Scout can be a negative. Or it can be positive. So, in response to the question "to hoot or not to hoot"-it all depends……