They asked what?! What employers can and can’t ask you in an interview

Job interviews can be stressful enough, especially when your interviewer throws an awkward or tough question your way. Here’s your guide to stay calm, confident and in control when this happens.

Key Points:

• What is an inappropriate interview question?
• How to answer inappropriate or taboo questions: Age, marital status, religion.

Inappropriate job questions:

Sometimes interviewers may ask questions that can feel invasive and cross the line, even unintentionally. Certain questions are not appropriate and can be illegal under anti-discrimination laws.

In Victoria. the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (VIC) provides that a person mustn't request or require someone to supply information that can be used to form the basis of discrimination.

A job interview is designed to help employers whether or not you're the most suitable person for the role. This means that the questions you're asked should directly or indirectly relate to your ability to perform the role.

Examples of inappropriate questions include:

• What is your race or ethnicity?
• Where were you born?
• Is English your first language?
• What is your gender?
• Do you practice a particular religion?
• How many sick days did you take at your previous job due to disability?
• Are you married? Or do you have children?

These questions touch on protected attributed such as race, religion, gender, age, disability or marital status, and you’re under no obligation to answer them.

Questions employers can ask:

• Are you legally allowed to work in Australia?
• What languages do you speak? (if relevant to the job)
• Can you perform the duties listed in this role?

What to do next if you’re asked an inappropriate question…

Step 1: Weight your options

If a question feels off, pause. It might be unintentional so try steering the conversation back to the role. For example:

“I’m interested to know how that related to the role. Can you please tell me more?”

Or,

“I prefer to focus on how my skills fit this role, could I tell you about my experience managing similar projects?”

By sensitively responding to what you think is a discriminatory question, it may encourage the interviewer to explain why they think the question is relevant to the role. This helps you stay professional while keeping control of the conversation.

Step 2: Keep your response short and general

If you choose to answer, do so briefly and without revealing unnecessary details. Then return the conversation to talk about your work experience.

Step 3: Report if necessary

If the interview made you feel uncomfortable or discriminated against, you can report it to the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) or the anti-discrimination body in your state or territory. You deserve to be treated with respect in every stage of the hiring process.

Finally

Handling tough interview moments is all about preparation and confidence. Plan what you’ll say, stay calm, and remember that your value comes from your skills and experience, not your personal circumstances.

Visit Fair Work for more information:

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/to...

https://www.youthcentral.vic.g...

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