10 Interview Questions You Can Skip

### 10 Interview Questions You Can Skip

Did you know that you’re not required to answer every single question posed during a job interview? Interviews are a chance for both you and the employer to understand each other better, but that doesn’t mean you have to share every personal detail or divulge your entire life story. Just like in any professional setting, there are certain guidelines to adhere to.

Interestingly, about one in three interviewers are uncertain about which questions are legal, and many less-experienced interviewers may not realize they’re overstepping boundaries when trying to determine if you're a good fit for their organization. This can unintentionally expose them to legal risks by asking discriminatory questions. Sometimes, it can even be challenging for you to recognize when a line has been crossed, which is why it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these types of inquiries ahead of time.

Generally, questions that are considered illegal or inappropriate include those about your birthplace, age, ancestry, or national origin; questions about sex, marital status, children, or pregnancy; inquiries regarding physical disabilities, health, or medical history; questions related to religion; and those concerning criminal records.

To help you navigate this, here are ten questions you should definitely avoid answering in your next interview:

#1 How old are you?

Questions aimed at determining your age are not permitted. While employers need to confirm that applicants meet the minimum age requirement of 18, asking directly about age is not appropriate. Be particularly cautious with inquiries directed at candidates over 40, as discrimination based on age is illegal. Questions like "What year were you born?" or "When did you graduate?" can indirectly reveal your age.

#2 What religion do you practice?

Topics related to religion are off-limits. When an employer inquires about your religious beliefs, they often seek information for scheduling purposes. If faced with this question, you might respond politely, saying, “I prefer not to discuss my religious beliefs, but I can assure you it won’t affect my work commitments.”

#3 How many children do you have?

While this question might seem like casual conversation, it’s a sensitive topic. Questions about family should be avoided, especially when used as an icebreaker during interviews. The underlying intent might be to gauge your availability and flexibility for work duties.

#4 When was the last time you used an illegal drug?

Employers can ask whether you are currently using illegal drugs, but they shouldn't probe into your past drug history. If you feel pressured to discuss prescription medications, remember that this can also fall under discrimination rules as per the Americans with Disabilities Act.

#5 Do you live nearby?

This question often reveals the employer's interest in your commuting situation and work availability. However, it could also indicate a preference based on location, which can be discriminatory. Generally, it's more acceptable for employers to ask about your willingness to relocate, so if you're comfortable, you can explore that topic further.

#6 Are you in debt?

Asking about your debt is inappropriate since it involves your credit history, which is often illegal to inquire about in this context. Your financial situation shouldn't affect your job performance. If an employer wants this information, they must seek your consent before conducting a credit check.

# 7. Have you ever been arrested?

When applying for jobs where trustworthiness and character are crucial, employers can ask about criminal convictions. However, they cannot legally inquire about general arrests. Typically, background checks help assess your suitability for a role, so it’s advisable to be upfront about any incidents. If you have a conviction, it's essential to demonstrate to potential employers that you’ve learned from your past mistakes and have moved on.

# 8. Is English your first language?

Employers don't necessarily need to know if English is your first language, and they can't ask this question directly. They can evaluate your language skills through your CV and inquire about any additional languages you speak, read, or write fluently if required for the job. Even seemingly innocuous questions like "What country are you from?" are off-limits, as they can reveal your nationality.

# 9. Do you like to drink socially?

This question is quite similar to inquiries about drug use. While it might not come up during the interview, it's good to be prepared. If asked whether you drink socially, you have the right to say no. This question is illegal, as the law protects candidates, including recovering alcoholics, from having to disclose such information.

# 10. How is your health?

This question can be somewhat sensitive. It's important to remember that asking about your health in this way is illegal, and you can choose not to respond. However, you may be required to answer more job-specific health inquiries to ascertain your physical capability to perform tasks, like standing for long periods or lifting certain weights.

Good Luck