Illegal Interview Questions
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 indicates that discrimination based on national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, disabilities, arrest record, military discharges, or personal information is illegal. Various federal, state, and local laws regulate the questions a prospective employer can ask you. Questions must relate to the job for which you are applying.
You have options if you are asked an illegal question:
| 1. Choose to answer the question knowing you are providing information that isn’t job related. You take the risk that a “wrong” answer could harm your chances for a position. | 2. Refuse to answer the question. You will be within your rights, but you may come off as uncooperative or confrontational which could put off potential employers. | 3. Examine the intent behind the question and respond with an answer to this. For example, if asked if you are married or engaged, you might choose to respond that your personal life allows you to meet the requirements for the position. |
Take this quiz to see how easily you can spot illegal interview questions: