Migrants
Migrants have the same rights in relation to pre-employment and employment as others in New Zealand. The Human Rights Commission has the statutory functions of leading equal employment opportunities and encouraging the development of harmonious relations between individuals and the diverse groups in New Zealand society. Decent employment is widely regarded as a critical element in the social and economic integration of migrants and refugees.
Unfortunately, barriers to accessing suitable work mean many migrants experience delays in getting jobs or are under-employed in jobs that do not make best use of their qualifications and experience. Migrants suffer prejudice, fear of difference and inter-cultural misunderstandings and often have language difficulties. Recent research shows the more similar migrants are in looks, language and European heritage to New Zealanders the more successful they are in securing employment.
Another study shows discrimination in job short-listing against those with non- Anglo-Saxon names.
Migrants who believe that they have been discriminated against in preemployment such as short-listing or in the interview process should contact the Human Rights Commission on 0800 496 877 or by email infoline@hrc.co.nz
see also » Xenophobia
How can employers attract job applications from migrants?
Employers wanting to increase staff diversity need to audit their recruitment and selection processes to ensure they are not indirectly filtering out applications from migrants. For example, how a job is advertised including whether it concentrates on core competencies or irrelevant characteristics, can either encourage or dissuade migrant applications. Where and how the position is advertised, the style, tone and tenor of the advertisement and whether it uses EEO statements and shows commitment to diversity are important. Overseas research shows that selection panels which include minority members improve the success rate for migrants. Interviewers who have been trained to avoid “like me” bias also increase the chances of successful migrant employment. Training is important for all members of selection panels.