ResumeBuilder.com survey: 1 in 4 workers have experienced weight discrimination

ResumeBuilder.com, a provider of resume templates and career advice, has published a recent survey report that examines the prevalence of discrimination in the workplace based on height, weight and level of attractiveness. According to the survey, 26 percent of workers say they have definitely or probably faced discrimination in the workplace due to their weight.

The report, which analyzes responses from 1,000 workers in the United States, also shares insight on the consequences of workplace discrimination.

According to the survey, half of working Americans have concerns about how their physical appearance is perceived by others in the workplace. Among respondents who self-identified as obese, 71 percent say they have experienced weight discrimination. Among those who self-identified as overweight, 53 percent say they have experienced weight discrimination. Additionally, among those who self-identified as underweight, 42 percent say they experienced weight discrimination.

Likewise, 23 percent of respondents say they definitely or probably faced discrimination in the workplace due to their perceived attractive or unattractive physical appearance. Among male respondents who self-identified as somewhat or very unattractive, 64 percent say they have been discriminated against. Comparatively, among female respondents who self-identified as somewhat or very unattractive, 47 percent say they have been discriminated against. Furthermore, 12 percent of all respondents say they have definitely or probably faced height discrimination. Men were more likely to say they have faced height discrimination.

“The media’s impact on self-perception has permeated our culture, and although we recognize its effects on the younger generation, we do not often address the effect on those in the workplace,” said Stacie Haller, chief career advisor at ResumeBuilder.com. “As organizations continue to improve opportunities for all by addressing discrimination issues, they should also be looking at physical appearance discrimination.”

Overall, 36 percent of respondents say they have been discriminated against due to weight, height or attractiveness. Of this group, 58 percent say this discrimination resulted in loss of motivation, 40 percent say it caused mental health issues and 26 percent say it reduced productivity. As a result of discrimination, 19 percent believe they did not receive a promotion, 15 percent say they did not get a raise and 13 percent say they were unable to secure a job.