The interview process is regulated by state/provincial and federal laws dictating an inappropriate or illegal interview question. These guidelines are typically accessible through the Human Resources Department of the hiring company or your state/provincial legislator or department.
Interview questions should strictly pertain to the job and not be used to gather personal information. Some of the most stressful questions can be illegal. Responding to them can be tricky, as choosing not to answer based on their legality might unfairly cost you the job. It’s crucial to prepare for such scenarios before the interview.
If faced with an illegal question, avoid responding defensively. Instead, give the interviewer the benefit of the doubt, as they may not be aware that the question is prohibited. However, remember that your response releases information to the employer that you might prefer to keep private.
Here are a few examples of illegal questions and potential responses:
Question: Do you have children? Response: Yes, I have three children: one, three, and six years old. However, I can assure you that my childcare arrangements are exceptional, and I have my mother as a backup in case of emergencies.
Other examples of illegal interview questions include inquiries about age, religion, political affiliation, health status, marital status, race, and native language. Remember, maintaining a positive attitude and providing constructive responses during interviews increases your chances of receiving job offers. If you’re not satisfied with your resume’s results, take action now to change your future.
Here are some other examples of illegal interview questions:
- What is your age/date of birth?
- Does your religion allow you to work on Sundays?
- What is your political affiliation?
- How is your health?
- Does your family approve of your travel?
- Have you ever been arrested?
- Do you speak English at home?
- Are you divorced?
- Is that Miss or Mrs.?
- What race are you?
- What is your native language?
- Is your husband or wife employed?
- How will you handle the long commute?
Most interviewers are just curious; they don’t mean to be insensitive and are probably unaware that their question is inappropriate. They want to know about your work skills and professional experience to determine if you can do the job, and they want to get to know you as a person. You need to ensure that your responses to these questions are positive, even if you are not giving an exact answer, because that is the only way to receive a job offer.
A powerful resume = job interviews = job offers!
“If You Are Not Happy With the Results Your Resume is Generating Then Act Now to Change Your Future”
We look forward to partnering with you in the future,
Candace Davies ACCC, CRW, CIC, CPRW, CEIP, CECC
Review Candace’s credentials here.