I’ve been scrolling through job listings lately (not by choice, mind you - thanks redundancy), and something’s been grinding my gears. Why are recruiters and HR departments treating basic legal requirements like they’re generous gifts from the employment gods?

You know what I’m talking about. Those job ads that breathlessly announce “We offer 4 weeks annual leave!” and “We contribute to your superannuation!” like they’re revolutionising workplace benefits. Mate, that’s not a perk - that’s literally what the law says you have to do. It’s like advertising “We pay you money for your work!” or “Our building has functioning fire exits!”

Had a conversation with a mate the other day about job hunting, and it reminded me why I’ve developed such a healthy skepticism of recruitment agencies over the years. Someone shared a story online about being dragged into the city for an interview, only to be told upfront that the job had already been filled - but hey, let’s chat anyway so I can “get to know you.” Sound familiar? Unfortunately, it does to me too.