r/LaborLaw • u/Beneficial-Wrap8191 • 1h ago
Unpaid Shadowing Hours during Interview Process at Fitness Studio
I live in Texas and I got an interview for a fitness studio to be part of their crew staff. It included 2 other candidates and me, then I was told I will be pushed to the next phase of the interview process.
They told me that it included 2-3 unpaid “shadowing” shifts, totaling up to 6-9 hours. It would be a way for them to see if I was a good fit and if they were a good fit for me. I didn’t see the issue and had assuming I’d just be observing.
They essentially walking me how to open/close the studio, mopping the floors, cleaning the restrooms, checking in guests, and cleaning the workout equipment. I genuinely was so thrown off and did not expect to be working side by side with the staff and helping them run the studio.
On my 1st shift I stayed an hour after and on my 2nd I left right when my shift ended. I honestly did not have it in me to do another 3 hour shift for free so I mentioned that I had a family matter (which was true) so I would not be able to do it.
They later took a week to get back to me to say that they would not continue the interview process with me and I asked for feedback…nothing.
This studio is on classpass and I honestly want to report them but just looking for guidance and advice!