Apr
14
Why do so many of us women accept that getting paid less than our male colleagues is acceptable? That’s a question that’s been bothering me for some time. Which is why, when I recently went for a job interview, I brought it up.
I should say that it was a strange kind of interview. Mainly because I had a perfectly good job and had no intention of taking this one if it was offered to me (not to mention they were a kerosene suppliers, and I wouldn’t have known kerosene if it punched me in the face). No, the interview was merely an experiment. Instead of them interviewing me, I’d be interviewing them.
How exciting!
I arrived early for my interview, and wasn’t nervous at all. After all, I had nothing to loose. I could just march in there and get this off my chest. Which explains my weird smiling and happy behaviour before I went in. The other woman sitting near me was certainly worried by this.
I walked in and allowed the interview it commence as normal. Then, when we got to the “have you any questions bit?” I said, “I do have one, actually,” and the bald man looked as though he’s just wet his pants.
“Go on,” he said.
I said, “will I get as much money as my male colleagues?”
He looked suspiciously to each side of him, then beckoned me forward and whispered “more actually–from experience the women tend to do better. Would you like the job?”
I said, “yes I would, thank you very much”.
The strangest interview I have ever had. But trust me, this does happen!