The Hidden Dangers of Seemingly Harmless Interview Questions
When preparing for a job interview, you’re likely to anticipate a series of formal questions about your work history, strengths, and career goals. However, some informal questions can be just as revealing – and potentially discriminatory.
The Illegal Question That’s Still Being Asked
A recent study by InHerSight found that 25% of women have been asked about their family status during the job interview process. This includes questions about having children or plans to start a family in the future. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, such questions are illegal and can be used as evidence of discrimination.
Why Employers Ask These Questions
Some hiring managers may ask these questions innocently, as a way to make small talk. However, others may be trying to predict an employee’s future needs for time off or flexibility, which can impact their chances of getting hired. This can be particularly true for employers seeking to avoid paying for maternity leave.
The Consequences of Discrimination
Discrimination against mothers can have far-reaching consequences, not only for the mother but also for the child. A study on California Paid Family Leave found that paid maternity leave can lead to better supervision, less time in group care, and improved mother-child bonding. By weeding out mothers in the application process, companies are ultimately harming both parties.
The Marital Status Question
In addition to questions about children, 28% of female applicants have been asked about their marital status, and 12% have been asked about their plans to get married. While these questions may seem unrelated to children, they can be used to predict a candidate’s future family plans.
Turning the Conversation Back to Your Experience
If you’re asked an inappropriate question, you can use the opportunity to steer the conversation back to your qualifications. For example, you could say, “That wouldn’t impact my job performance either way, but I’d really like to tell you about [insert a relevant skill or experience].”
Taking Action Against Discrimination
If you believe you’ve been discriminated against due to questions about your family status or marital plans, you can file a claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. It’s essential to research your options promptly, as there are time constraints on filing.
Remember, your experience and qualifications should be the focus of any job interview. Don’t let inappropriate questions distract from your strengths – and know your rights if you’re faced with discrimination.
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