Interview Questions You May Ask
All questions asked by the committee during an interview must be job related. However, if the candidate brings up a topic, it may be discussed. In order to help the candidate understand this process you may say to the candidate, "As a search committee, we are limited with the questions that we can ask you. However, you may ask us questions or raise any issue that will make this position more appealing to you such as the needs of family members or significant others, housing, jobs, schools, etc."
The following table, provided by the Office of Diversity and Equity, is a quick reference detailing legal and potentially discriminating interview questions.
| Topic | Can Ask | Cannot Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Family Status | Do you have any responsibilities that conflict with the job attendance or travel requirements? Note: If this is asked of one applicant, it must be asked of all applicants. | Are you married? What is your spouse's name? Do you have any children? Are you pregnant? What are child-care arrangements? |
| Race | None | None |
| Religion | None, but you may inquire about availability for weekend work. | What is your religion? Which church do you attend? What are your religious holidays? |
| Residence | None | What is your address? Do you own or rent your home? Who resides with you? |
| Sex | None | Are you male or female? |
| Age | If hired, can you offer proof that you are at least 18 years of age? | How old are you? What is your birth date? |
| Arrests or Convictions of a Crime | Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Note: If asked, you must state that a conviction will be considered only as it related to fitness to perform the job being sought. | Have you ever been arrested? |
| Citizenship or Nationality | Can you show proof of your eligibility to work in the U.S.? Are you fluent in any languages other than English? Note: You may ask this second question only as it relates to the job being sought. | Are you a U.S. citizen? Where were you born? |
| Disability | Are you able to perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation? Note: If this question is asked, you must show the applicant the position description so he/she can give and informed answer. | Are you disabled? What is the nature or severity of your disability? |
