Questions that can't be asked at a job interview
It’s no secret that hiring is one of the biggest challenges of managing and growing a productive team.
At interviews we want to obtain important information, but also build a friendly rapport with the candidate. But some questions are just a little too friendly. Over stepping the mark could leave you guilty of discrimination and your company potentially facing an expensive claim.
Employment and equality legislation doesn’t just start once you hire someone, it’s applicable the moment you post a job advert. Those with responsibility for hiring need to be aware of this and avoid precarious comments and questions.
As a general rule of thumb avoid questions that are related to age, marital and family status, gender, disability, religious belief, sexual orientation, race, membership of the travelling community, or any physical attributes of the candidate.
Do’s and Don’ts
OK: What days can you work? What hours can you work?
Not OK: How many children do you have? Do you have a babysitter available if we need you on a weekend? Do the working hours fit with your childcare?
OK: Do you have any responsibilities that would interfere with traveling for us?
Not OK: Do you have a baby or small child at home?
OK: Are you legally eligible to work here?
Not OK: What country are you from?
OK: This job requires someone who speaks more than one language. What languages do you speak or write fluently?
Not OK: What's your native language?
OK: Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
Not OK: Have you ever been arrested? Do you take illegal drugs?
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