Interviewing Guide

SUNY Westchester Community College  Career Services Interview Guidelines 2017-2019 14 Employers ask illegal questions because they make an assumption that certain personal situations will automatically disqualify a candidate for a position. Some employers don’t know any better; they have not had the opportunity to train in appropriate interview techniques and are unfamiliar with what is considered an illegal inquiry. Illegal questions generally fall into four categories: Disabilities and physical skills Personal background (age, sex, national origin) Race, religion or color Family and relationships (marital status, children Questions like: How old are you? Are you a US citizen? What religion are you? Are you married? Howmany children do you have? How tall are you? If asked an illegal question, you have three options:  You can answer the question —you’re free to do so. It is not illegal for you to answer an inappropriate question. If you feel it is in your favor to answer, go ahead. However, remember that you may be giving information that isn’t related to the position; and might in fact harm your chances of getting the job.  You can refuse to answer the question , which is well within your rights. Unfortunately, depending on how you phrase your refusal, you run the risk of appearing uncooperative or confrontational—hardly words an employer would use to describe the “ideal” candidate.  You can focus on the intent behind the question and respond with an answer as it might apply to the job. For example, the interviewer asks, “Are you a U.S. citizen?” or “What country are you from?” You have now been asked an illegal question. You could respond with “I am authorized to work in the United States.” Similarly, let’s say the interviewer asks, “Who is going to take care of your children when you are at work?” You might answer, “I am prepared to meet the work schedule that this job requires.” This option is usually the best choice as it provides the information the employer really needs but protects your legal rights. The goal is still to get the job offer, yet be respectful of the interviewer and protect your legal rights. It is usually not a good idea to confront the interviewer in a hostile way. You can always decline the position if offered at a later date. If you are sure that an interviewer has asked you illegal questions with the intention of using your answers as a basis for a hiring decision , it may be time to contact the governmental agency in charge of handling complaints related to employment discrimination- the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). Their website provides information on how to determine if you have been discriminated against and how to file a complaint with the commission- www.eeoc.gov/facts/howtofil.html