Too old to work at Virgin Blue? Get over it.

What do you think about this:

"The Queensland Anti-Discrimination Tribunal has begun hearing the case of eight women who feel they were discriminated against when they applied for positions with (Australian Airline) Virgin Blue.

The lawyers for the women have argued that in the two years after Virgin Blue was launched in 2000, only one woman over the age of 35 was employed by the airline.

The eight complainants, aged between 35 and 56, say they were rejected at the selection stage of the selection progress because Virgin Blue favored younger women"

Apparently the Virgin Blue interview process is nothing more than a "cattle yard" for attractive young blondes.

I know what I should think, something like "That is terrible.  It shouldn't be tolerated in today's age of equal opportunity.  Go get 'em ladies.   Blah, blah, blah."

But to hell with that I say.  If Virgin Blue want to employ people who have a certain look and can maintain the appeal and image of the brand, what's wrong with that?

Virgin Blue is a cheeky, young brand.  It comes across in everything they do.  They are known for promoting their youthful, spunky looking young staff.  It is part of their image.  A point of difference.  When I go on a Virgin Blue plane, I expect that I will be offered "tea or coffee" by some good looking, nice smelling blonde.   It's not the reason why I choose to fly Virgin Blue, but I know what to expect, because that's what they promise, and what they consistently deliver.

It should be no surprise to these washed up old Ansett girls that they can't get a job as a trolley dolly on one of Virgin Blue's planes.  Just like they wouldn't get a job in some trendy fashion shop.... or one of Virgin's music stores.

Image is important, and an employer should be allowed to exercise some discretion over how their staff look, particularly in front line service areas.  So whilst Virgin Blue will probably cop a smack over their recruitment processes, I think these ladies should simply get over it.

Am I on my own here?

 

Comments

[Todd]

That was a disturbingly rational point of view.

[rommel]

You are right on all points.However,why would those women be induced to present such a stupid case.Rommel

[Woojay]

What if the company wants to be really cool and allow only good looking passengers, like the coolest nightclubs? Imagine trying to buy a ticket and getting turned down, but hey, I'd "get over it." Relax guys, none of this will ever happen to you because, well, you're guys. However, someday you will be over 35 and looking for a job in management. 35 is too old, good looking or not, but you'll "get over it." Here's hoping you only ever fly with good-looking people like the gorgeous blonde stewardess who refused to help me with my bags when I had my two young daughters with me, aged 3 and 5 and I had to carry 3 carry-on bags and the 3 year old. When I asked for help she ignored me but led me to my seat. But it didn't matter because she was good looking and young so I got over it. I wonder where she is now? Not working for Virgin because she must be about 34, since it has been a few years. Time's up! Next!