It is a well known fact that Santa’s North Pole is one of the best known & longest lasting employers in the world. The North Pole has experienced some timeless achievements since the start of the operation in 1350. One of the best known practices Santa is responsible for is the “All or Nothing” policy (eliminating all customer complaints since its’ institution. You’re either Naughty or Nice. There’s no in between). St. Nick also has a No Returns policy….unheard of in any industry!!!

It’s common to see companies credit their employees for business successes. It seems fair to think the North Pole is no different. Who does Santa employ? Elves. Lots & lots of them! Who are they? Most sources report the elven workforce to be comprised of males only, at least 300 years old, vertically challenged, pointy eared, North Pole natives, who worship candy, presents, cheerful music, and children. So is Santa an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)?

Businesses often place “EOE” at the end of a classified ad seeking applicants for open job positions. Yes, it’s the law, but businesses, HR Managers & staffing agencies want everyone to know that they follow the rules. Here are several of the discriminatory categories the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) protects:

• Age: The EEOC protects older workers, so if Santa’s workers are over 300 years old, any claim in this category would likely be dismissed after investigation & review.
• Disability: Santa provides reasonable accommodation to the elves physical impairments. Work benches, furniture and tools are all custom made and are also ergonomically correct.
• Equal Pay: All employees are paid equally in candy, room and board so it is unlikely that there are problems here. (Though Santa could be in trouble with other government regulatory agencies for failing to comply with minimum wage laws. And for evading payroll taxes!)
• National Origin: Because all elves are North Pole natives it would first appear that Santa does indeed discriminate in this category. However, research shows that no candidates from any other country have ever applied there for work.

So to answer the question, “Is Santa’s workshop an Equal Opportunity Employer?”, the answer is probably so. It would truly be a disappointment for many if not.  I will keep believing that Santa hires only with best practices!