The Answers you really want to know.
Something a little different today: HR World's article "30 Interview Questions You Can't Ask and 30 Sneaky, Legal Alternatives to Get the Same Info" at http://www.hrworld.com/features/30-interview-questions-111507/ is causing a little controversy in the comments.
There's a divide developing between those who believe finding out what days someone is available to work is reasonable, and those who believe that circumventing the law by being duplicitous is worse than breaking it in the first place.
Personally, I do think that we have equality laws for a reason, and as a woman of childbearing age I would be very upset to be asked 'do you intend to have children' or 'are you married'? However, managers, especially the old school managers, do want to be reassured about candidate's commitment to their employer, that they have outside interests, and that candidates are local.
As professional advisors we are charged with giving those in the organisation what they want, AND keeping them safe. Sometimes that means finding a sneaky way to get the information they need without breaking the law. The law changes overnight. Managers don't.
Wendii,
Very good link. Yes, some of the questions are controversial. Nevertheless, asked in a subtle way in many parts of the world. Some are not even considered illegal to ask say in India or other parts. I guess the social setup too matter.Ofcourse these questions matter only after candidates makes the cut.
Karthik.
Reply to this
Karthik,
true - the question 'Are you over 18' would be illegal in the UK, but is obviously acceptable in the States. However, the legality of the question does matter even if candidates don't make the cut - those that sue you due to illegal discrimination (and you haven't been in recruitment very long if you havn't been threatened with a lawsuit!) will point to illegal or immoral questioning as evidence of your lack of understanding of employment law, or your unwillingness to take it seriously, and certainly in the UK, an Industrial Tribunal would accept that evidence as detrimental your case.
Wendii
Reply to this