I want to hire a new receptionist and I want to make sure they have at least 5 years experience. Can I put this in the advertisement?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Kate Dodgson of [author’s firm]:
- This risks being indirect discrimination.
- Highly suitable job applicants may not be able to demonstrate the necessary experience if they have been unable to work full time in the past because of age, sex, race, impairment, or because of another attribute recognised under anti-discrimination legislation.
- To play it safe refrain from putting a number on the experience required and give applicants an opportunity to show you their relevant experience.