Interview questions that are in danger of violating state and federal laws

Interview questions that are in danger of violating state and federal laws

Introduction

During job interviews, employers will try to gather as much information about you as possible, so there's bound to be some questions that will require you to think. But it's the simple questions that are often most harmful and even illegal. Any questions that reveal your age, race, national origin, gender, religion, marital status and sexual orientation are off-limits.

State and federal laws make discrimination based on certain protected categories, such as national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, disabilities, arrest and conviction record, military discharge status, race, gender, or pregnancy status, illegal. Any question that asks a candidate to reveal information about such topics without the question having a job related basis will violate the various state and federal discrimination laws.

Interview Questions that Violates Federal and State laws

Have you ever been arrested?

An employer can't actually legally ask you about your arrest record, but they can ask if you've ever been convicted of a crime. Depending on the state, a conviction record shouldn't automatically disqualify you for employment unless it substantially relates to your job. For example, if you've been convicted of statutory rape and you're applying for a teaching position, you will probably not get the job.

Are you married?

Although the interviewer may ask you this question to see how much time you'd be able to commit to your job, it's illegal because it reveals your marital status and can also reveal your sexual orientation.

Do you have children?

Again, the employer may ask you this question to see your available time commitment with the company, but this question is inappropriate. However, they are allowed to ask you directly if you have other responsibilities or commitments that will be conflicting to your work ...