Know Your Rights as a Job Seeker

Know Your Rights as a Job Seeker Know Your Rights as a Job Seeker When you’re looking for a job, it can seem like employers and hiring managers have all the control. But did you know that, as a job seeker, you have certain rights as well? Read more to find out what they are- and ensure they are exercised the next time you’re in the middle of a job interview. Here’s what you are entitled to: A confidential interview. When you’re applying for any position, your potential employer should stay mum on your application. This is especially critical if you’re job hunting while you still have a job. This means that a hiring manager shouldn’t contact your current boss or share sensitive information about you (including what is written on your resume) to anyone else. An accurate job description. As a job seeker, you’re entitled to know exactly what the job entails. This includes the job responsibilities, possible chances for advancement, and benefits that come with the position (including telecommuting options and flex schedules) without any false information. Of course, job duties often morph after you start working, but important factors- such as the fact that you might have to travel twice a month- should be discussed at the time of the interview. A non-discriminatory interview. Employers are expected to follow non-discrimination policies when interviewing and selecting potential candidates for a position. This applies for people of all races, religions, and sexual orientation, without inquiry or prejudice. Potential employers should follow their company’s policies on equal employment and affirmative action. Advanced knowledge of potential tests. Let’s say you’re applying for a position as an in-house writer. A writing test shouldn’t be sprung on you right after shaking hands with the hiring manager. While this applies for proficiency tests in your area of expertise, it can also apply to drug testing as well. Not only should you know about any tests ahead of time, but you are entitled to know what they will be used for and the results of your tests, too. Reasonable treatment. Let’s say that your interview went well and you were hired for the position. Then, a week before you’re to start work, your new boss emails to let you know that they’ve decided to hire someone else. It’s horrible, but it happens. And if it does happen to you, you are entitled to some sort of recompense, which may come in the form of financial compensation or a referral for another position within the company. Knowing your rights as a job seeker will help you feel more confident as you continue your job search and get an at-home career that you want. Readers, are you exercising your job interview rights? Have they ever been violated? Let us know in the comments section below!