(no subject)

[rhivolution]

Dear self,
This is a reminder not to feel disappointed in yourself for not applying for a long-term media intern/trainee gig that only goes for expenses of £100 a week, no matter how much possibility of getting full-time work there may be. Yes, even if you were rejected without interview for a paid internship earlier today.

First of all, in the UK, this is against the law outside of course-credit work, and it is classist, problematic, and something many media freelancers are trying to stop happening. Minimum wage is £5.93/hr and is that for a reason.

Secondly, you should not feel guilty for wanting to be paid properly. You're worth at least that much, even in media.

Thirdly, they're wrong for even doing such a thing and even more wrong for doing it through a recruiter who should know better. A company that doesn't abide by the rules of fair treatment for the low-ranking is probably one where you wouldn't want to work in the long run.

Love,
Rhi

Comments

[were_duck]

I would like to cosign this letter. What you say here is true.

[meloukhia]

Yes. Workplaces that devalue employees are not places you, or anyone, should have to work. Resisting exploitative internships is not just an act of self care, it is also an act of protest. This company is vile and should be ashamed of itself. It clearly knows it's doing something wrong, or it wouldn't be slinking around.

[azuire]

*nods vigorously*

Wonder if they have an anonymous complaint system type-thing?

[littlebutfierce]

& what's even more depressing is that comparatively, £100/weekly for expenses is pretty good for a lot of internships! :/

[amadi]

If a company is willing to flout the wage laws, then you have to wonder what other laws (like workplace safety) they're happy to disregard, too.

[brainwane]

BTW, Laptop Magazine is looking for reviewers -- KT Bradford just told me today. Would you be interested? You should talk to her.