NYC Just Banned Everyone’s Least Favorite Interview Question
Interviewing for (and successfully landing) a new job is no easy feat. From putting together a captivating cover letter and resume that explains your experience to dressing the part (even in a video interview), wowing your future boss and teammates is an important part of the process. The other nerve-wracking element? Negotiating your pay — which can be extra tough if you’ve been underpaid during your career to date. Though this is a huge problem when it comes to earning what you’re worth, we recently came across some inspiring news that leaves us feeling more hopeful about the shocking gender pay gap: New York City recently passed a bill that completely bans companies from asking interviewees about their salary history.
The hero behind the new bill is brilliant Public Advocate Letitia James, whose bill guarantees that people who have been underpaid won’t suffer eternally for their low wages. “Being underpaid once should not condemn you to a lifetime of inequality,” she shared. Her efforts started back in August with a mission to help women see the same start as men when it comes to their careers. It took three months for NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio to sign an executive order which affected public employees, which the private sector came into effect with the recent signing. In addition to her work on this bill, James is also known for her passionate work with women’s organizations in New York City. Talk about an inspiring change-maker to know about and closely follow.
With the latest bill signing, New York City joins the state of Massachusetts and Philadelphia, where salary-history bans already exist. We’ve heard that talks are underway in California, which means the Golden State might be next to make a positive, progressive change.
Has being forced to share your salary history affected your pay? Tell us your story on Twitter @BritandCo.
(h/t The Cut)
