"Interview Questions: Revisited"

by William Schlosser, Administrator at Robison, Curphey & O'Connell

While reviewing the questions two things hit me. First, Some of the questions were very simple, natural and sought information I really wanted to know about the applicant. The questions however are inappropriate to ask. I also thought that I would need this information following employment and would then be required to ask some of the same questions that were prior to employment, not appropriate.

Second, Some of the questions that are obviously inappropriate could get asked in another form that may seem appropriate at first. However, the questions lead to the same answer or information therefore it cannot be asked pre-employment.

Here are some examples of those inappropriate questions as well as some questions that are acceptable post-employment.

Inappropriate questions:
Are you married? 
Is this your maiden or married name? 
With whom do you live? 
How many kids do you have? 
Do you plan to have children? 
Are you pregnant? 
How old are you? 
What year were you born? 
When did you graduate from high school? 
Where were you born/ Where are your parents from? 
What race are you? 
Are you a member of a minority group? 
What religion are you? 
Do you attend church regularly? 
Which religious holidays do you celebrate? 
Have you ever been arrested? 
Do you have any disabilities? 
How does your condition affect your abilities? 
What is your medical history?

Appropriate questions to ask during the interview: 
You may ask if the applicant is over the minimum age for the hours and working conditions of the
     job. You may verify legal U.S. residence or work visa status. 
You may ask race as required by affirmative action programs and indicate equal opportunity
     employment. 
You may ask about convictions by civil or military courts, if accompanied by a disclaimer that the
     answer will not necessarily cause loss of a job opportunity. 
You may ask if the applicant can perform specific duties required by the job.

Review these questions before every interview. Prepare a list of questions that can be asked. It makes the interview an easy process and ultimately leads to the right employee.