Author Rashmi Bansal’s Post About Hiring A Full Time ‘Intern’ Has Left The Internet Fuming

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Fun Fact:
A creative man/woman has bills to pay. 

But unfortunately, it is not something everyone understands. If you are a person with a creative bent of mind or know someone who is, then there are solid chances that you have come across what is popularly know as the ‘exposure’ trap. That’s right, the one, the infamous hurdle that artists/content creators struggle the most with.

In fact, I cannot begin to lay down the devouring details of the gimmick that expects work without pay or little pay; and I say this from personal experience. While there are folks who are trying to rise above that, there are still people who spoil it for us all.

In a similar fate, Rashmi Bansal, author and publisher, recently took to Facebook to share that she is looking for an apprentice along with a long list of requirements. And it is cringe-worthy, to say the least. Read her post here.

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 “I am looking for a hungry and foolish young person who would like to work as my apprentice. This will involve research, fact-checking, handling my audio and video files, their transcription, accompanying me for interviews. It is a full-time job based in Mumbai and will also entail travelling both within the city and outside.

Overall profile:
You can be a graduate of any discipline, I don’t really care. But you cannot be employed or studying elsewhere. Or preparing for MBA or any such side activity. This work requires your full attention and focus.
You should be an avid reader.
You should have impeccable English language skills, knowledge of multiple Indian languages would be a plus point.
Don’t have to be a published writer but I need to see some proof of writing ability – a blog, journal, whatever.
Should be comfortable with technology though need not be an engineer.
Ability to learn quickly and take feedback.
Commit to working with me for a minimum of 1 year.

What you get in return is a chance to learn everything I know – what they don’t tell you about writing, publishing at any media school or B-school. You will get credit in my next book. And you will get a small stipend (but apply only if you would have worked, even for free! because I want to see that kind of passion and devotion).

Please apply only if you are dead serious and willing to start at the earliest. Send in a one-page profile and one writing sample or link to [email protected]. In your covering note tell me why you should be selected, why this idea appeals to you. And please be as honest as possible. I hate bullshit in any form.
Look forward to hearing from The One for whom this position is meant to be…

 

 

Needless to say, the post faced a lot of flak as soon as it was shared. Angry fans even took out the time to call out the writer for arrogance. 

1. Ouch!

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2. EXPOSURE DOESN’T BUY SH*T.

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3. There were few dejected fans too!

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4. Passion? Really?

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5. WORD.

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The author even tried to defend her stance in replies to the comments…

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But it only worsened the entire dialogue. 

1. BS. BS. BS.

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2. Couldn’t agree more.

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Exploitation at work exists and it is imperative that employees and employers are aware of the working labour rights before they get into any agreement. The education and awareness of the same are the need of the hour, if you ask.

As sad as it looks, the only grace point is that people are finally realising and reckoning with the ugly face of hypocrisy and calling it out in a fashion like above. Only if we could do more and better! The world will be a better place for all.

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