Preventing Workplace Discrimination

© 2019 Laureate Education, Inc. Page 1 of 2

John and Amala Scenario Amala Saladin was excited to be a candidate for the position of customer service representative for a small local employer. She enjoyed interacting with people, both in person and on the telephone. She took great pride in her ability to communicate clearly, uncover customers’ needs, and resolve their problems. Her 3 years’ experience in retail prepared her for this new job. Amala was looking forward to working in an office environment so she would not have to be on her feet all day. Upon greeting her for the interview, the male interviewer, John Brian did not shake her hand, though he had done so for other candidates who preceded Amala. Here is how the interview transpired: John Brian: “Thank you for your interest in Small Local Company. I am John Brian, the supervisor to whom the selected candidate will report. I see by your resumé that you have worked in retail for 3 years following your graduation from high school. Have you ever worked in an office environment?” Amala Saladin: “That is correct; I was a customer service representative for a home products store. I greeted customers, helped them find merchandise, and resolved any complaints about the products or the customers’ experiences in the store. However, this would be my first office job.” JB: “Great. Tell me a little more about yourself. What do you like to do for fun? I ran a Google search on you and found you on Facebook and Instagram. Why don’t we become friends on Facebook so I may learn a little more about you?” AS: “Well...I don’t know that I’m really comfortable with that....” JB: “What are you concerned about? Do you have something to hide?” AS: “No, I don’t have anything to hide. I just wonder how this relates to the job I am interviewing for.” JB: “Let’s move on then. You graduated high school 3 years ago. Are you planning to start a family soon?” AS: “No, I would like to develop my career before considering starting a family,” she answered, despite feeling uncomfortable with the question. JB: “Great. This job requires candidates to work flexible hours. Do you have a car to get you back and forth to work on a flexible schedule?” AS: “No, I do not have a car. I will take public transportation.”

© 2019 Laureate Education, Inc. Page 2 of 2

JB: “Hmm. Okay then. So, why should I hire you over the other candidates I have interviewed?” AS: “Well, I am enthusiastic. I work well with others. My experience in retail where I had to resolve customers’ needs and ensure their satisfaction prepared me for this new role in Small Local Company. I did my research about the company’s mission and community involvement. I am reliable and trustworthy. I believe I would be a perfect fit here.” JB: “You’re involved in the community, huh? So, won’t that be shown on your Facebook page? Again, if we were Facebook friends, I would be able to check you out further.” Amala did not provide this information. JB: “What was your pay rate at the home products store? Please provide your pay stubs so we may verify it. Amala did not provide this information. JB: “What questions do you have?” AS: “How soon would you be making a decision on the candidate who will be selected?” JB: “We have three more candidates to interview. We should make our decision in about a week.” AS: “Thank you.” Amala left the interview feeling concerned. Several questions were on her mind: “Did she answer the questions correctly? Will she be eliminated for not friending Mr. Brian on Facebook? Will her age be held against her?”