Several years ago in New York, a Frum guy was looking for a job.
As he glanced through the job adverts, a non Jewish company was looking for someone with requirements which suited him perfectly.
This required an interview on a specific date in late July, which happened to have fallen out in the nine days.
Being an observant Jew, he had two inquires to make on that matter.
First, was he allowed to apply for a job in the nine days. Lastly, what about shaving? He didnt want to present himself to Goyim looking like a mess.
After asking a very well known prominet Posek of that period, he was told that the first question is not a problem at all. The shaving was absolutley prohibited.
Well, as the time of the interview started to get closer, he became very nervous and uncomfotable about the psak. He kept on worrying on what impression he will make.
He needed the job very badly and didnt want to forfeit his chance. He tried to pospone the interview for after T’B’av, but it wasnt possible.
The day of the interview arrived. He got up that morning and approached the mirror several times. He couldn’t bear the ghastly image. After tormenting himself for about an hour, his yetzer hora go the better of him. He shaved his spikey beard!
He arrived at the Company , and the big boss, an upper class Gentile started friendly conversation .
As the interview came to a close, the boss pasued and said the following;
‘I am not Jewish, but I’ve lived in New York all my life. I see Jewish men everyday and interact with them. I know a lot of their customs and laws.
I especially know, that at this time of year, Jews are in mourning and the men do not shave!’
The frum guy became very edgy and before he wanted to explain, the boss interupted again and said, ‘But you shaved.You were not loyal to YOUR religion, and in that case, you won’t be loyal to our Company. I’m sorry, I can’t hire you’