Discrimination in interviews still current in 2015!!

Do you get PMT?”, “When was the last time you did drugs?” and “Can you wear more make up next time?” are just some of the worst questions candidates have been asked.

A recent study from employment solicitors Thomas Manfield has revealed that discriminatory questions are still rife during interviews.

Other candidates were asked "Can you flirt with customers to make them stay longer?", "Are you planning on having children soon?" and even "Is that a hickey on your neck?" about someone’s birthmark.

Meredith Hurst, Senior Partner at Thomas Mansfield, said that there was now no excuse for such questions.

“Employers, without even realising, can ask seemingly innocent questions and be breaking the law. However with employment law information so readily available online, there really is no room for insensitive questions or illegal practices.”

HR Professional, Renae Jackson, adds that those hiring should go further to ensure they are not discriminating against candidates:  “Discrimination can occur during the candidate screening stages, the interview process and really anywhere throughout the remainder of the employee life cycle. So the laws are there for the right reasons.

“Even the most well-intentioned employer can unwittingly leave themselves open to litigation though. HR professionals must taking care to consider things like spell check facilities for candidates on the recruitment website and make sure that nothing will either directly or indirectly disadvantage applicants with a disability.”

Vercida works with over one hundred clients who are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. If you are an employer and interested in working with Vercida to promote your diversity and inclusion initiatives and attract the best candidates, please call 02037405973 or email [email protected] for more information.

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