It seems harmless. It’s probably illegal. And it’s costing you the best talent in your industry.
Top candidates interview companies just as much as companies interview them. When hiring managers ask questions about family planning, age, or personal relationships, they risk legal problems and show an unprofessional culture to the very people they want to attract. The best talent has options. They notice when interviewers ask about marriage plans, pregnancy intentions, or religious beliefs.
These questions quickly show that the organization lacks legal awareness and professional hiring standards. High-caliber candidates often avoid companies because of these warning signs alone. Smart organizations train all interviewers on legal hiring questions.
They focus on relevant skills, experience, and cultural fit through behavioural questions. This approach not only prevents discrimination claims but also shows the company’s commitment to fair and professional practices.
The competitive edge goes beyond avoiding lawsuits.
What’s the strangest illegal question you’ve heard in an interview?