Recently, there were some interesting discussions among colleagues of an industry association about illegal interview questions.
Did you even know that there are questions that are considered illegal - a company could face fines and even legal action if a representative asks a jobseeker those questions? What is funny is that once we started going down memory lane, we all had our share of "illegal questions" interview stories.
If you are actively interviewing, would you know an illegal question if you heard it? What would be your response if you know that the question is illegal? Here are some questions that are taboo in ANY interview setting:
- Are you a US citizen? (unless it's the federal government)
- What is your native language?
- What religion do you practice?
- How old are you?
- How many more years do you plan on working before retirement?
- Do you have or plan to have children?
- Are you a drinker or smoker?
- Do you have any disabilities?
- How far is your commute?
- What holidays do you celebrate?
- Do you rent or own your home?
- Have you ever been arrested?
- Are you on any medications?
Do any of these questions surprise you? As you will notice, many of these illegal questions deal with age, family, nationality, and lifestyle. As part of your job search process, you need to be an informed jobseeker. Whether you respond to these questions with honesty, humor or offense, just be prepared to answer!
