for an administrative clerk position in the finance department. Having previously held a directorial role, Liberty had lowered her expectations but was still met with rejection.
As she crumpled her resume, Liberty forced a smile and asked the interviewer, “Can I inquire why my appearance doesn’t align with what the company is seeking?”
The woman scrutinized Liberty’s fuller figure and responded candidly, “Since you asked, I’ll be honest. While we don’t have high expectations for clerks in finance compared to receptionists, just look at you. You must weigh at least two hundred pounds. I can only imagine how difficult it is for you to move at that weight. How did you let yourself get to this point?”
Liberty felt her face flush. After a moment, she mustered the courage to say, “I am committed to losing weight. I really need a job, Miss. Can you give me a chance? I have the experience to perform well in this role.”
It seemed that job seekers nowadays faced fat-shaming.
“It’s your responsibility to lose weight. We have only one vacancy, but many candidates who are far more qualified than you. There are plenty of people for us to choose from.”
True, the overweight woman had previously been a finance director and possessed ample experience, but she had been out of work for years. Additionally, she had a two-year-old at home. Who could say if she might have another child soon?
Perhaps she would become pregnant just a few months after starting the job. The company would then be obligated to pay for her maternity leave.
Moreover, there were numerous applicants vying for any position at Lewis & Co. The company was not lacking in talented candidates, so there was no urgency to hire the overweight woman. The interviewer had no personal connection to her, and thus felt no obligation to offer her the job.
Liberty recognized that the interview was a
Liberty was unable to suppress her feelings upon realizing that the woman had rejected her due to her size. She asserted, “Your company won’t survive long with employees like you who judge others based on their appearance.
“Yes, I’m overweight, but who says that fat people can’t work? You’re treating this like it’s a beauty contest when you’re hiring for a clerical position. Fine, do it your way. I don’t care.”
After being put in her place, the woman became enraged and pointed toward the door, snapping at Liberty, “You fat cow! Get out of here! So what if I think you’re fat? So what if I choose not to hire you?”
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