Ten Interview Questions that Could Get You into Hot Water

Ten Interview Questions that Could Get You into Hot Water:
By: Lisa Reddick, Human Resource Manager, The Goodman Group

1. What’s your maiden name so that I can check your references?
o Instead, ask about any names used in the past that will allow the company to verify work experience and education.

2. How old are you? When did you graduate from high school?
o Instead, ask about college graduation, since it isn’t pegged to a particular age.

3. Where were you born? Are you a US citizen? Where did you learn to speak Spanish?
o Instead, ask if a candidate can submit verification of their legal right to work in the United States.

4. Are you married? Can you have adequate childcare?
o State the standard working hours, any overtime demands, and company travel expectations. Then ask whether candidates would have any reason why they couldn’t meet those requirements.

5. Would your religion prevent you from working weekends?
o Instead, state that weekend and holiday work is required and ask if that is acceptable.

6. Are you disabled? Have you ever filed a workers comp claim? How many days were you sick last year? Do you have AIDS?
o Companies can’t exclude a qualified candidate from a job if that candidate can perform the “essential functions” of the job, either unaided or with a “reasonable accommodation.”

7. Have you ever been arrested?
o The application asks about criminal background. Only ask questions directly related to what they state on the application.

8. What kind of discharge did you get from the military?
o Military service questions must be limited to relevant skills acquired during service.

9. Have you ever declared bankruptcy or had your wages garnished?
o Employment offers can be contingent upon a credit check if applicable state and federal laws are followed and good credit is necessary to perform the essential functions of the job.

10. Who is the nearest relative we should contact in case of emergency?
o It’s fine to ask for an emergency contact, but asking for the “nearest relative” could border on discrimination by national origin, race, or marital status.