Husband for hire…

[WhatDidISayAlan]

… because single women obviously can’t put up their own shelves, change fuses, or plumb in washing machines, right?

Just popped up on my Facebook feed

[teezletangler]

I don't know, it kind of made me chuckle.
I've often thought that if I were ever divorced or widowed, I'd be in serious trouble around the house. I don't do any of the "traditionally male" tasks and wouldn't know where to start with anything DIY- or tech- related. I'd probably find the name of this business reassuring and think, yup that's just who I need. Obviously it is everyday sexism and I am pathetically helpless at this stuff, but if he's good at his job then I don't really mind that he has found a lighthearted way to reach his target demographic.

[ElftonWednesday]

@Cwenthryth

It’s grossly sexist. Can you imagine a domestic cleaning/nanny/PA company “Wife for hire”?

Though wives for hire might actually be more tempting to many women than the thought of another useless husband.

[SD1978]

It's a franchise business over here- he's probably violating their trademark (in Australia) it's actually a really popular and lucrative business.

[ArabellaScott]

Husband for hire does not suggest DIY. I thought it was an escort service.

[EightWheelGirl]

@Baystard

Does he charge for the 30 minutes he spends on the toilet looking at his phone or stop the clock first? [Ponders]

Does your employer dock you money for your toilet breaks and chats with colleagues?

[EightWheelGirl]

@teezletangler

I don't know, it kind of made me chuckle.
I've often thought that if I were ever divorced or widowed, I'd be in serious trouble around the house. I don't do any of the "traditionally male" tasks and wouldn't know where to start with anything DIY- or tech- related. I'd probably find the name of this business reassuring and think, yup that's just who I need. Obviously it is everyday sexism and I am pathetically helpless at this stuff, but if he's good at his job then I don't really mind that he has found a lighthearted way to reach his target demographic.

Exactly my thoughts.

Some stereotypes are just lazy projections/bigotry but others have root in reality. IME, vast majority of women don't own a set of socket wrenches or have the faintest idea how to change a tyre using a bottle jack.

[Babdoc]

It’s a stupid name for a business, that will put off all his potential male customers.
My local handyman service is called “How can we help” - non sexist title, and it’s cheap and excellent. Used by as many men as women - having a penis doesn’t mean someone automatically knows how to do every possible diy task!

[TheWeeDonkey]

I've got one thanks and he never finishes any of the jobs he starts in this house. So I'll give it a miss.

[Janesmom]

Meh. I think it’s pretty good marketing to be honest. I have no idea to do any of those jobs so always ended up paying a man to do it.