New research suggests those with non-binary gender pronouns applying for jobs are less likely to receive a response to move forward in the interview process.
The research was conducted as Business.com created two applications and sent them to 180 job opportunities for entry-level candidates.
The gender of the identical applications was not explicit as the name used was “Taylor Williams.”
Half of the applications added “they/them” pronouns.
Those with the “they/them” pronouns received 8% less interest than those without incorporating pronouns.
Sixty-four percent of the companies receiving the applications were reportedly EOE companies, or Equal Opportunity Employers.
EOEs declare that they will not discriminate against employees on the basis on race, sex, religion, genetics, disabilities, or origins.
According to Business.com, one employer said, “This person seems like a decent fit on paper, though I am not interested in the drama that a person who thinks they are a ‘they/them’ brings with them.”
Reporting from Business:
"The pronouns are offputting and unnecessary. Get rid of the pronoun nonsense. You’re either a ‘he’ or a ‘she.’” – Man, age 36, college, university, and adult education industry “I would first take off the “they/them” pronoun reference. I find that personal pronouns are quite silly in a job situation. This is better reserved for social settings and not in a job setting.” – Man, age 50, hotel and food services industry
