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Business · 8 September 2026

Some firms now hire new staff through X Factor-style competitions

Some firms now hire new staff through X Factor-style competitions

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About 380,000 people applied for L'Oreal's Brandstorm competition this year, up 58% from last year's 240,000. These hiring competitions generate buzz, but some critics say they favour extroverts and create economic discrimination. One recruitment expert believes these formats will stay, but firms should offer feedback to candidates.

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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Why do firms use competitions? What is 'economic discrimination'? Are introverts disadvantaged?

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