In Guangzhou, China, a company’s hiring policy has stirred up controversy as it explicitly stated that job applicants born in the Year of the Dog should not submit their resumes.
According to a recent post on a social media platform by a netizen, “Sanxing Transport Co., Ltd.” in Guangzhou posted a job requirement for office staff with proficiency in basic office software, clerical experience, offering a monthly salary ranging from 3000 to 4000 Chinese Yuan, with specifics to be discussed further. However, the recruitment notice conspicuously included a disclaimer that applicants born in the Year of the Dog should refrain from applying, apologizing for any inconvenience.
In response to inquiries from the media, company personnel explained that the reason for not hiring those born in the Year of the Dog is because the owner belongs to the zodiac sign of the Dragon, which is believed to be “clashing” with those born in the Year of the Dog, and this could be deemed unfavorable for the company’s development. As long as the applicant is not born in the Year of the Dog, all other qualifications are acceptable.
The company’s establishment of a zodiac threshold for recruitment has sparked discussions among netizens. Comments such as “Oh no, Year of the Dog individuals will be out of work,” “I always thought it was hard to find a job after turning 35, but now there’s also zodiac discrimination,” “Gender discrimination aside, now there’s zodiac discrimination too,” and “Are the hiring standards really this high now?” have been circulating online.
Some have shared personal anecdotes, with one person mentioning, “My colleague said her husband’s boss does the same thing – they wouldn’t hire individuals whose zodiac signs clash with theirs, even if they were talented,” while another stated, “Zodiac signs have nothing to do with compatibility. Interpersonal relationships are based on personality traits, not zodiac signs.”