Is it legal for an employer to refuse to accept a job application because...?

Question

...you know a current member of staff ?

My friend has had a job for two weeks now and the shop is hiring again for casual staff....

I went in to hand in an application form today approached the manager and asked "Are there currently any casual staff vacancies?"

and the manager said "Do you know him ?" (pointing at my friend)

I said "Yes" ???

she then said "Sorry, we do not accept applications from friends of staff members"

.... Is this legal to refuse to accept a application for employment due to this ?

EDIT: I did'nt go to hand in an application form it was to hand in a CV and Cover Letter which may I add I sat and put much thought into and now it has to go into the bin !! (saves them doing it i suppose :/)

EDIT: yeah this is a UK question :)

Answer 1

Yes, I think he is quite within his rights to do this.

Answer 2

You don't say where you are located, so this answer pertains to the U.S.

I'm not a lawyer, but I've managed businesses in three states and been through several classes in personnel law. I am not aware of any laws prohibiting this. Your only recourse is if you can prove that the real reason is discrimination against a protected class (gender, race, religion, age, etc.).

On the other hand, there aren't many good reasons to refuse you if you have the qualifications and a good work history. In fact, many companies encourage employees to refer friends and acquaintences as long as there will not be any conflicts of interest. (An example of this would be if your friend would be your boss.) If that's not the case, just apply somewhere else. If this person is a poor manager, you'll probably be better off in another job.

Answer 3

The employer should at least accept the application. They do not need to hire you, however, and this can legally be based on the fact that you do know the other person. Employers can hired whomever they want or don't want. I would, however, insist they accept your CV/Resume.

I also want to point out that as an employer, it really is a bad situation to put yourself in when you hire friends and family. If there is one death in the family; everyone needs it off. If one person gets sick, since they live together; they all call in. Also, work ethic can be closely related. That said, if I have a stellar employee and their best friend needs a job; I'd consider it. So maybe your friend isn't the best person to know???

Answer 4

They can not refuse to give you an application, but they can refuse to take back a completed one.

Many companies have policy's that you cannot work with someone you know or are related to, and usually it is asked on the application.

Be glad they asked up front otherwise they may have taken the app. from you and just tossed it in the garbage and made you wonder if you would ever get called for an interview.

Answer 5

If you are in the US, then yes it's definitely legal. Your wording of your question sounds like you might be from the UK - I don't know if there are any laws there that would prohibit this, but I'd be surprised if there are. And even if they took your application form, there would be nothing to say they had to hire you - THEY could just throw it away.

Answer 6

I don’t think of it particularly is unlawful. quite, it’s quite usual. the internet technique helps HR departments. they are able to establish a filter out so as that throughout the time of basic terms applications that comprise a minimum sort of key terms from the posting make it with the aid of to a stay HR individual. the utility could additionally ask questions like “Are you keen to shuttle?” If the activity demands this and you say no, the utility will possibly no longer enable you to proceed. This probable additionally helps weed out people who can’t use computers. maximum businesses don’t have the time or materials to coach problem-unfastened laptop skills.

Answer 7

I don't think it's illegal. As long as they are not discriminating against you because of race, sex, religion, disability, age etc........ they may have their own reasons for not allowing friends or relatives to work with each other. I wouldn't ditch the cv though......apply for a job somewhere else.

Good luck.

Answer 8

As long as you are not denied employment for sex age race religion or disability, they may refuse you for any and all other reasons.

Answer 9

if the company has a policy that no friends of workers can be hired then its perfectly legal. sorry, good luck

Answer 10

hm i really think that sounds like a pile of p.o.o.
but i honestly dont know the legal side of it but if i were you i would check it with the local advice bureau