q CHOICES: ON THE JOB


There’s no doubt that finding a job you like—even just finding any job—can be tough. It’s not a hopeless situation though, and with enough persistence you can do it.


Most people find their jobs through personal connections or by responding to advertisements. The Vermont Department of Employment and Training can also assist you in finding employment without a fee. Your local office is listed in the yellow pages under “Employment Agencies.” Another good source for job openings is the classified section of your local newspaper. The listings continually change so you should check them with each new edition of the paper. Regardless of what kind of job you are applying for it is important for you to make a good impression. While certain jobs may require special skills or experience, all employers are looking for employees who will be dependable, hardworking and honest, and who will be pleasant and positive at work.


No matter how you find a job opening, remember that federal and/or state laws make it illegal for an employer to refuse to hire you because of your race or color, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry, national origin, place of birth or age. Once you have a job, it is illegal to treat you differently with regard to promotions, transfers, wages or working conditions for any of these reasons. In Vermont and several other states, it is also illegal for an employer to discriminate against you because of your gender identity. In an interview, employers should generally avoid asking you about these issues. However, employers may, in some circumstances, inquire about whether you need any accommodations for a physical or mental disability in order to perform the essential functions of the job you seek. If you feel you have been denied a job for an illegal reason, contact the Vermont Attorney General’s Office (802-828-3171). If you believe you were illegally denied employment by a state agency you can contact the Vermont Human Rights Commission (802-828- 2480). You cannot later be denied a job because you filed a complaint.


Your Rights at Work


Among your rights at work are the right to be paid a minimum wage, and in most jobs, to be paid "time-and-a-half"—one-and-a-half times—your regular pay rate for hours in excess of 40 hours per week. You also have the right to join or form a labor union, and to undertake concerted action with your fellow workers to see improved wages and working conditions. Questions or complaints about wage and hour regulations should be


On Your Own, 2008 Edition 19


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