HRM practice and the reality of the low‐skill workplace: excesses of the “new” industrial revolution

Uses the term “McJob” to convey that working either full‐time or part‐time at McDonald’s is one of the most common occupations in the 1990s. Defines a McJob as a job requiring little training, usually in the service sector. Investigates the low‐skill workplace through six case studies and a survey consisting of personal interviews with the individuals in Fredericton, Canada. Reveals a large number of incompetent, morally bankrupt and illegal labour practices, particularly as low‐skill workers have minimal recourse to legal processes. Indicates that conventional employment law simply does not extend to low‐skill employment and that part‐time and minimum wage employees, as well as being denied legal rights, are completely at the whim of the employer. Proposes an Ombudsman should operate independently of government, ranking employers according to their treatment of employees, publicizing offences and unfair practices, to shame bad employers and act as an impetus for change.