Employers Offer Less Because of Unemployment?

Question

It's been my experience that when employers know you are collecting unemployment they will offer less for a position. In Michigan we are required to accept an offer at 70% of what we formerly made -- even if you were underpaid to start with. What are the employee's rights?

I forgot to mention that they do know that someone is on unemployment in the State of Michigan because we are forced to place our resumes onto Michigan's Job Talent Bank online that is searched by employers. I would prefer to just stick to Monster.com, but there is a very strict process that we have to adhere to here. Every single call I have had so far has been from their site. The latest one was for a position that is $6 less per hour than my previous salary and unfortunately within the 70% range -- still have to go for the interview, but it is very discouraging to be forced to entertain so much less. Also, it is not better than unemployment because once we figure in daycare for one child I am actually bringing home LESS than I would on unemployment. So, despite the fact that I have many years of experience and am very good at what I do some lucky employer may get a "very good deal" to hire me for much less that I legally would have to accept.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, none in this area.

The intent is to get people off unemployment as quickly as possible, but a drastic cut of 30% living norm is somewhat harsh.

If you're good at "what" you do, I'm confident you'll make up the 30% diff. Still, 70% is better than unemployment.

Best wishes.

Answer 2

It is your right not to tell an interviewer that you are collecting unemployment benefits. I realize that some interviews are through the employment office and it is unavoidable sometimes. To combat the issue start working outside the "job finder" services offered by the employment office. This way when you apply for a job the interviewer will never find out you are collecting benefits. As long as you keep your numbers up for jobs applied for, the employment office won't care. Keep your schedule full of interviews and your benefits will not be endangered. Make sense?

I don't think the question will come up in an interview, but if the interviewer asks, "what are you doing for money, are you getting benefits?", you can answer, "I am living comfortably using my funds in place for my job search." This gives a clear message to the interviewer. First that you are not desperate, the second message is you plan well and are able to save.

Answer 3

How do they find out you are collecting unemployment?

Don't tell them!