A Texas woman in a controversial interview outfit has sparked a mixed reaction on social media. The woman who goes by the name Tyreshia Morgan, narrated her encounter with a recruiter in a viral TikTok video that has now garnered over 5.7 million views at the time of writing. Morgan’s choice of outfit which she sees as professional, contrary to the recruiter's opinion led to her being sent home.
In the video, Morgan narrated how she went for a job interview wearing a white T-shirt, a white sweater, and black-fitting shorts. She was, however, requested to change her outfit and return, even though she thought her dress code was appropriate.
Tyreshia and the Recruiter: What Really Happened?
Contrary to Morgan’s opinion, job interviews are often seen as an opportunity to create a first impression, and the choice of outfit plays a major role. This is probably why the recruiter asked Morgan to change her outfit which she declined.
Narrating her ordeal to her followers, Morgan had this to say, “The recruiter rejected me because of this!” She wrote in the text overlay of her TikTok video. “I cannot believe the recruiter asked me to change my interview clothes then come back. I look very neat and professional, so no!” Her video expresses displeasure over being turned away, while underlining her decision not to change the outfit.
The Reactions: What are People Saying?
As expected for a video which has been seen close to 6 million times, there have been a lot of reactions. The opinions are divided, with many users saying the outfit was inappropriate for a job interview, and emphasizing that traditional formal clothing is the recommended choice for professional workplace settings.
One user on TikTok commented, ‘‘Neat? Yes. Professional? No…….’’ Another said, ‘‘Who wears shorts to an interview for a job?’’ Another TikToker advised, “No matter the temperature outside, you ALWAYS wear pants to an interview! $20 pants from Old Navy would’ve saved you!”
A few users, however, showed support for Morgan's attire choice, challenging the conventional norms of professional dress codes. Some users pointed out the need to update workplace dress standards to reflect modern attitudes and climate considerations. One TikTok commenter said, ‘‘Ma'am, you look cute! Why can't we get an update on these old dress codes?!?! It's not the 1950s anymore.’’ Another user added, ‘‘You should see the stuff [I've] seen people wear to interviews. There’s nothing wrong with this in warm weather.’’
The debate extended to discussions about the flexibility of dress codes in different work environments, especially in warmer climates like Texas. Some users acknowledged the lax nature of business casual attire in such regions but still maintained that shorts were inappropriate for job interviews.
One social media commenter noted, ‘‘And in San Antonio?! Tyreshia, we have the most lax business casual allowances because of the heat and the vibe BUT shorts are never appropriate for an interview. Bless the second chances!’’
Many human resources professionals also joined the conversation, supporting the recruiter’s decision and emphasizing the importance of dressing appropriately for interviews.
Final Thoughts
The face off between Tyreshia Morgan and her potential employer has given rise to the ongoing debate on the appropriate dress code for work and evolving standards of professionalism. With a shift in societal norms and discussion about inclusiveness and modernity in the workplace, the question of what a typical workplace dress code should look like remains a topic to deliberate on.