DALLAS — Researchers at Oregon State University found that an employer decides whether an applicant is right for the job within within the first ten seconds of an interview.
And 37 percent of employers say they didn't hire someone based on what they were wearing.
That's where a group called Dress for Success comes in, providing suits and interview coaching to women in need.
But the organization's Dallas operation has run into serious trouble, and it could leave hundreds of people with nowhere to turn for help.
Pamela Rudd recently met with a Dress for Success consultant for a fitting. It's all about making the best first impression when women down on their luck land a job interview.
Rudd worked in the banking industry for three decades; she's been out of work for the last three years, so the job hunt is on.
This charity helps women get back on their feet by providing free shoes along with free suits — and, most importantly, free job training.
"It's kept me from being so overwhelmed and down and busy and thinking outside the box," Rudd said.
The number of clients seeking help in Dallas has quadrupled since the Dress for Success store opened at Valley View Mall in 2006.
The organization is now in crisis mode. The mall is shutting down, putting the charity in jeopardy of closing its doors.
"We are looking for an angel corporate investor who would be able to give up some space," said Dress for Success board president Linh Quach.
The organization needs room to accommodate women like Cassandra Bailey, who returned to pick up a week's worth of clothing. Dress for Success helped her find a job as a nanny after she was laid off for one year.
"Boy, am I grateful," Bailey said.
Pamela Rudd is ready to go for her first day on the job Wednesday at a temp agency. "To get my foot in the door... to keep my skill set up... to keep myself motivated and also to get a little income so I can pay some of my bills," she said.
Rudd has fresh confidence and is looking forward to a new start. She hopes Dress for Success gets what it needs to help other women put a pep back in their step.
Dress for Success is hoping to find out soon where its store will be relocated. The organization is talking to potential businesses who may be able to donate space, but so far it has received no commitments.
E-mail ddenmon@wfaa.com
