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Culture Clash or Cancel Call? Founder Revokes Rs 22 Lakh Offer Over Candidate’s LinkedIn Remarks


Updated: July 03, 2025 16:22

Image Source : Mint
A hiring decision at Indian startup Jobbie has sparked a heated debate across social media and corporate circles, after founder Mohammed Ahmed Bhati rescinded a Rs 22 lakh per annum job offer due to the candidate’s allegedly derogatory comments on LinkedIn. The incident has reignited conversations around workplace values, digital footprints, and the boundaries of professional judgment.
 
Key Highlights from the Hiring Fallout
  • The candidate had impressed the Jobbie team during interviews and even suggested platform improvements, prompting the company to offer a package above its budget  
  • A routine background check revealed recent public posts on LinkedIn that were deemed offensive to religious communities  
  • The offer was revoked with a formal rejection letter citing concerns over cultural sensitivity and workplace values  
  • Screenshots of both the offer and rejection letters were shared by Bhati on LinkedIn, triggering widespread reactions  
Founder’s Justification and Company Values
  • Bhati emphasized that while talent opens doors, values determine longevity within the organization  
  • He stated that the company prioritizes respect and basic decency over technical competence  
  • The decision was framed as a reflection of Jobbie’s zerotolerance stance on hate speech and discriminatory behavior  
Public Reaction and Online Debate
  • Supporters praised the move as a stand for workplace ethics and inclusivity  
  • Critics accused the founder of virtue signaling and perpetuating cancel culture in hiring  
  • Some questioned whether personal social media activity should influence professional opportunities  
  • Others argued that cultural fit and emotional intelligence are valid criteria in modern recruitment  
Broader Implications for Hiring Practices
  • The incident highlights the growing role of digital footprints in employment decisions  
  • It raises questions about the scope and fairness of background checks, especially in the age of social media  
  • Companies may increasingly factor in public behavior and online conduct when assessing candidates for culture alignment  
As the lines between personal expression and professional identity continue to blur, the Jobbie episode serves as a cautionary tale—where one post can tip the scales between opportunity and rejection.
 
Sources: Hindustan Times, NDTV, LiveMint, MSN News, Navbharat Times

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