EC
Emma Rua cuello
Oct 20, 2025
Today I had a very bad experience at Arby's in London. I went to the restaurant for a job interview. Upon arrival, the cashier was very friendly; I told him (in English) that I had an interview, and he offered me a cup to drink while I waited. So far, so good.
However, in the background, I saw what I assume was the manager or clerk. As soon as she saw me, she made a disgusted face that made me feel very uncomfortable, although I decided to stay because I had already paid for an Uber to get there with my son.
A little while later, I heard her ask the cashier who I was and what my name was. Then she came out and, without even greeting me, said arrogantly, "Do you speak English?" I replied in English that my level was basic and asked if there was any problem. She replied yes, and started searching for something on her cell phone's translator. I offered her mine to help, and then she told me they were looking for an English-speaking cashier.
I fully understand that being a cashier requires English, but the job description didn't say anything about that. It said "team member." If it had said "cashier," I wouldn't apply because I'm aware of the responsibility that comes with being a cashier. I'm fluent in English, because you have to interact with customers. I barely know the basics and am studying it. Furthermore, the job posting was in Spanish, and the company claims to be an equal opportunity employer.
I felt discriminated against, ignored, and treated with total disrespect. In other restaurants, even with my basic English, they've at least listened to me and given me the opportunity to introduce myself. This woman didn't even try.
It hurt because I made a huge effort to go: I paid for an Uber, brought my baby, left her car seat outside the restaurant, all to be made to feel this bad. I hope Arby's takes these types of situations seriously, because no one should be treated with contempt because of their language or their background.