Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I recently had an interview at a well-respected commercial organisation. I have ample relevant experience for the position. I felt that the interview was going well during the section where I was asked technical questions, gave a presentation and had to answer questions related to my field of work.
I was interviewed by two men (I am female). I was asked by one of them how I would cope with the work, bearing in mind that I have two children. I had disclosed this in my application form only to explain a short gap in my career progression.
I was stunned to be asked this question in 2015, and while I wanted to challenge them about whether they were asking the same question of male candidates, I answered the question. My response was along the lines of “fine, obviously, or I would not have applied for this position as I am not stupid and have worked since my children were small”.
The interview continued and it was made clear that successful candidates would be chosen in large part on whether they would “fit in” with the organisation and other staff. I have yet to hear whether or not I have been successful.
Leaving aside the issue of whether I want to work for an organisation that asks such questions in an interview, I am not sure whether and how to raise my objection with them. If I am unsuccessful I do not want to appear that I am acting due to “sour grapes” but I feel very angry that I was asked such a question when I suspect male candidates would not have been. I feel that future female candidates should not be put in such a position and that this large organisation should know better than to interview in such a way.
How, or indeed should I, raise this issue with the organisation in question?
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
