This is a measurement that has been in practice for many years. Unfortunately, it also has many flaws. For example, an incredibly fit person with a lot of muscle could easily have a high BMI, but after looking at them, no one would dare to call them obese.<\/p>\n
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With that in mind, there isn’t a concrete definition of obesity because everyone is different based on their unique height and weight.<\/p>\n
So, it’s up to individuals to make determinations in their own mind. When it comes to employers and hiring managers, each person might have their own idea of what being ‘too overweight’ looks like.<\/p>\n
Does Being Fat Affect the Way Employers See You?<\/h3>\n
We all stereotype issues, and that\u2019s why some people find it hard to get hired with piercings and tattoos<\/strong><\/a>, for example. Most of the time, it’s done without even realizing it. The interviewing you probably won’t look at you and think you shouldn’t be hired just because you’re fat.<\/p>\n But, the stereotypes that go along with being fat are what start to creep into an employer’s mind.<\/p>\n Some of these stereotypes include:<\/p>\n It’s not uncommon for obesity to result in a lower salary. If an employer assumes that you’re going to be lazy or not get the job done properly, they’re less likely to pay you a fair wage.<\/p>\n This isn’t just an assumption \u2013 these are facts!<\/p>\n So many studies have been done in regards to hiring issues and salary discrimination of obese people.<\/p>\n But, is it strictly the employer’s fault that obese people seem to earn more money? Not always. One thing to keep in mind is how people can view themselves when they’re overweight.<\/p>\n If you’re unhappy with the way you look, it can lead to a lack of self-confidence. Some people who are overweight have a lot of confidence and aren’t at all. Others have a hard time dealing with the issue.<\/p>\n For those people who are unhappy about their size, finding a job can be difficult for personal reasons. A lack of self-confidence can make you feel like you don’t deserve a high-paying job or\u00a0you wouldn’t get one even if you interviewed for it. So, some people struggling with their weight don’t apply for jobs that pay well.<\/p>\n A combination of discrimination and a lack of confidence are the main reasons why overweight people don’t usually earn as much money. Thankfully, there are things you can do to help with both issues.<\/p>\n Discrimination isn’t just frowned upon in the workplace. Often, it’s illegal and can lead to the place of employment coming under fire. But, weight discrimination seems to be one of the only socially-acceptable forms of discrimination still on the table today.<\/p>\n Weight discrimination (sometimes called fat shaming) goes far beyond just stereotyping what an employee could\/couldn’t do in a job. Overweight people are often considered stupid, slower, slobs, or prone to accidents or breaking things.<\/p>\n It\u2019s one thing to make assumptions like these based on a person’s appearance. But, the workplace can be a harsh environment for someone who struggles with too much weight.<\/p>\n According to another study<\/a><\/strong>, this kind of discrimination went up 66% from the 1990s to the mid-2000s. Unfortunately, there currently isn’t much that can be done to stop this kind of hostile environment.<\/p>\n Female discrimination in the workplace is a hot topic that has been talked about for years.<\/p>\n It\u2019s claimed that women still make less money than men. But, it can be even harder for women who are considered obese. Not only do these women tend to make less than their ‘thin’ counterparts, but they often have fewer chances for success, too.<\/p>\n According to a study by Michigan State University<\/a><\/strong>, only 5%-22% of top female CEOs of companies in the United States are considered overweight. This was determined by a BMI of over 30. That percentage is drastic enough to assume it’s not a coincidence.<\/p>\n Women have many ‘glass ceilings’ to crack because of their gender. But, even women with good jobs who could eventually gain more power will have a harder time reaching their career potential if they are overweight. Women are likely to be paid less and earn fewer promotions if they are considered fat.<\/p>\n There are many possible reasons for being overweight.<\/p>\n Sometimes it’s hereditary; sometimes it’s a condition that slows down your metabolism. Other times, you may have an injury or health condition that causes you to gain weight or makes it hard to lose.<\/p>\n If you’re someone who is overweight due to a lack of exercise and overeating, a lifestyle change may be the best way to get your dream job. It’ll also boost your self-esteem and help to lower your blood pressure<\/strong><\/a>. But, if your struggles with weight are due to an underlying condition, you don’t need to feel lost. Some jobs are well-suited for people who are overweight.<\/p>\n Keep these careers and tips in mind the next time you’re applying for something new:<\/p>\n If you do get called in for a job interview somewhere, it’s essential to protect yourself from discrimination. Just because someone may not be upfront with discriminatory comments doesn’t mean the culture doesn’t exist in a particular workplace.<\/p>\n If you have the chance, look at the environment of the place you’re interviewing. Are there any overweight people in management positions? Are there any overweight people at all? Does diversity among employees seem to matter?<\/p>\n Most importantly, it should feel like a safe place where issues are talked about as they come up. No office, medical facility, factory, etc., is immune from all types of discrimination.<\/p>\n Sometimes, it’s just one or two people who can change the environment. The difference rests in the workplaces that are open to talking about such things and working out possible solutions.<\/p>\n A New York Times<\/strong><\/a> article from 2010 cited research and interviews that suggested the healthcare industry is one of the most prejudices against obese people.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, the stereotypes that tend to linger for overweight people seem to be even greater in the healthcare industry. Employers may feel uncomfortable hiring someone who ‘looks’ unhealthy.<\/p>\n Many jobs in the medical field demand that you’re on your feet most of the day. It’s easy for employers to think someone who is overweight wouldn’t have the stamina to get through a shift.<\/p>\n There are still entry-level medical jobs that can work for you no matter what your appearance may be. For starters, remote work in the medical field is always an option.<\/p>\n This can include things like medical transcription. Some entry-level jobs, like phlebotomy<\/strong><\/a>, are also great ways of getting your foot in the door of the medical industry. From there, you can gain enough experience to push past any negative stereotypes about your size.<\/p>\n For some business owners, not wanting to hire someone who is overweight isn’t a personal issue.<\/p>\n They may not have the stereotypes in mind that won’t give an obese person a fair chance. But, they\u2019re looking out for their business. Regardless of the reason, it’s still a problem.<\/p>\n Because of the rise of obesity throughout the country, the CDC has started to work with employers. They initially developed a program called LEAN Works. It offered management strategies for obese employees to help them lose weight.<\/p>\n Today, the CDC still has several work\/health programs in place that employers can use as resources to keep their employees as healthy as possible.<\/p>\n Some employers have gone one step further, offering cash incentives to employees who lose weight. This is often done in ‘contest form,’ as a weight loss competition for the office.<\/p>\n The best option for employers, though, is to promote a positive and healthy lifestyle for their employees. Things like free gym memberships, healthy snacks in the break rooms, etc., can create an environment that makes everyone feel welcome.<\/p>\n It doesn’t discriminate\u00a0against people who are overweight. But, it encourages them to become and stay healthy. Finding a job that promotes this lifestyle is an excellent opportunity for someone who struggles with their weight. It’s a better emotionally-healthy environment for everyone.<\/p>\n If you’re overweight, getting through a job interview can feel like a daunting task. Sometimes, it can feel like the hiring manager takes one look at you and makes up their mind, even if you’re right for the job.<\/p>\n Even people who aren’t overweight often struggle with the interview process. If you’re self-conscious about your appearance, it can be even worse.<\/p>\n Thankfully, there are a couple of things you can do before and during your interview to help it go as smoothly as possible. Weight discrimination will depend significantly on who might be interviewing you. Everyone has their own negative opinions and stereotypes.<\/p>\n But, you can try to reduce them by using these tips:<\/p>\n\n
Do Overweight People Earn Less Money?<\/h3>\n
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Overweight Job Discrimination<\/h3>\n
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Are Overweight Women Discriminated More on the Job?<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nWhat Are the Best Jobs for Overweight People?<\/h3>\n
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What to Look for in the Workplace<\/h4>\n
Which Career is the Hardest for Overweight People?<\/h3>\n
Business and Obesity<\/h4>\n
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<\/p>\nHow to Stop Weight Discrimination during a Job Interview<\/h3>\n
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Can You Get a Good Job if You’re Obese?<\/h4>\n