As if things weren't difficult enough for young people in this economy, some firms are hiring based on how 'well-travelled' and 'well-spoken' their applicants are. Straight A-student with a good degree? Who cares: employers just want to know that you can fit in and chit-chat with posh clients.

This is all according to a report by the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission, which found that elite British firms are overlooking thousands of people from lower income brackets who fail to pass the 'poshness' test, based on accent and mannerisms that are associated with privilege.

Shockingly, one of the employers in the study described looking at working-class applicants as "sifting through mud", admitting that firms weren't bothering to look through applications from working-class people to find a "diamond in the rough" (charming).

The study, which included interviews with finance, law and accountancy staff at ‘elite’ firms, found that they are “systematically excluding bright working-class applicants” from employment. It also shows that working-class people are being shut off from some of the most lucrative jobs: 13 firms tested by the commission employ over 45,000 of the UK’s highest paid workers. 

The study found "working-class accents" were off-putting in the interview process, but managers preferred “well-travelled” young people, a luxury afforded to well-off families. Experience in more privileged social situations was found to be a favourable skill.

The report concluded that this is a “relatively hidden category” of discrimination, but it shouldn't really come as a surprise that being posh gives you a head-start in life.