How to Handle Inappropriate Interview Questions

There are certain questions that interviewers are not allowed to ask in an interview. These illegal questions include topics surrounding marital status, race, religion, disabilities or health issues, age, weight, etc.

One would think that all interviewers steer clear of illegal questions such as “What are your religious affiliations?” or “Are you married?”, but surprisingly, many don’t.

As a matter of fact, if any question regarding such topics is asked, the interviewee has the right to sue the person or the company.

When any of these inappropriate questions are asked, we are often stuck in the middle. On one hand, we want to show the interviewer that we have nothing to hide that may ruin our chance of being hired. On the other hand, we feel like it’s an invasion of our privacy.

It is always wise to be prepared for any question, whether appropriate or inappropriate.

How to tackle inappropriate interview questions.

Ask the interviewer to clarify the question
When such questions are asked, we become bewildered that we think we did not hear the question correctly. It is more than fine to ask them to clarify the question. Ask them how the question relates to the position you are applying for.
Eg: “Excuse me but I am not sure if I heard you correctly. Did you mean to ask if I am bachelor or married? If so, could you please tell me how this will impact the position I am applying for?”

Provide a one-word answer
Once the question is asked, it’s often time to back out. So, if you feel that the question is in any way inappropriate, feel free to give a one-word answer. Just take a deep breath and simply answer with a “Yes” or a “No”, but with a smile. You may know your rights but you do not want to come off as a rude and know-it-all-person. It’s best to be professional in a professional place even if the other party isn’t.

Change the subject by going back to the previous questions asked
You could avoid answering inappropriate interview questions by redirecting the focus back to topics already covered. This way, you can evade the question while still sounding optimistic and professional.
Eg: “Can we circle back on (subject) topic we were discussing earlier because I need more clarification if it’s alright with you?”

Address the issue
Some interviewers will go as far as asking you about your race or if you are single. These questions have no room in a professional place. So, it is perfectly alright to respond appropriately, if you feel offended. You could simply address your reason for not answering the question and if you feel like it is not the perfect place for you to work at, feel free to leave the room.
Eg: “I am sorry but I believe that such a question has nothing to do with my work experience or skill. It is personal and I would like to keep it that way. So, if we could kindly skip this particular question, I’d be more than happy to provide answers.”

The 4 tips mentioned above should help you in evading inappropriate or illegal interview questions. Also, we highly advise that you do more research on most common interview questions asked in an interview to prepare yourself for your upcoming interview.

We will leave you here with our best wishes.

Good luck!