Illegal Interview Questions: Know Your Rights and Responses

Mastering the Art of Interviews: Know Your Rights

As I reflect on my college days, one class stands out as a game-changer: my interviewing class. It wasn’t just about preparing us for job interviews; it also taught us how to conduct effective interviews. While I never saw myself as an interviewer, the skills I learned have been invaluable. Knowing how to navigate an interview not only helps you as the interviewer but also empowers you as the interviewee to recognize unethical or illegal questions.

The Rules of Engagement

Did you know that laws protect us from discrimination in job interviews based on race, sex, religion, color, and national origin? Many questions that seem unethical may actually be illegal and open companies up to lawsuits. It’s crucial to recognize when you’re being discriminated against during an interview. By doing so, you can respond in a way that deflects the question without revealing too much personal information.

Red Flags: Inappropriate Interview Questions

Here are some commonly asked interview questions that are inappropriate, and in most cases, illegal:

Marital Status and Family Planning

  • Question: “Are you married/pregnant?”
  • Why it’s inappropriate: It’s not only intrusive but also illegal to ask about your marital status or family planning.
  • Alternative response: “I prefer not to discuss details of my personal life, but I can assure you that I will fully commit and confidently meet the requirements of this position.”

Family and Children

  • Question: “How many children do you have/how old are they?”
  • Why it’s inappropriate: Employers cannot discriminate against you based on your family status.
  • Alternative response: “I prefer not to discuss details of my family, but I can assure you they are all supportive of my commitment to my professional life.”

Religious Beliefs

  • Question: “Do you have any religious holidays you celebrate?”
  • Why it’s inappropriate: This reveals your religion, which is protected from discrimination.
  • Alternative response: “I am always available to work Monday-Saturday – my religious beliefs and holidays I observe will not affect that.”

Disabilities

  • Question: “Do you have any disabilities/what are they?”
  • Why it’s inappropriate: While employers can ask about physical requirements, they cannot ask about disabilities that may affect your ability to perform the job.
  • Alternative response: “I am very confident that I am capable of all physical requirements of this position.”

National Origin

  • Question: “Were you/your parents born in the U.S.?”
  • Why it’s inappropriate: Employers can ask about your legal ability to work in the U.S., but not your national origin.
  • Alternative response: “I am legally able to work in the U.S.”

Remember, you don’t have to answer these questions, and you shouldn’t feel pressured to do so. By knowing your rights and being prepared, you can navigate even the most uncomfortable interviews with confidence.

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