Questions to Avoid Asking

Do Not Ask Lawful Alternative
Which religious holidays do you observe? What days are you available to work?
Do you belong to a club or social organization? Are you a member of a professional or trade group that is relevant to our industry?
If you get pregnant, will you continue to work, and will you come back after maternity leave? What are your long-term career goals?
How do you feel about supervising men/women? Can you tell me about your previous experience managing teams?
Do you have any disabilities? Are you able to perform the essential functions of
this position?
Have you had any recent or past illnesses or operations?
Are you able to perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodations?

Basic Questions

What is your understanding of our company and this opportunity?
What is your ideal job? What are you passionate about and why is this role the next step in your career path?
How do you like to be managed?
Tell me about a suggestion you made to improve the processes or operations in your position or within your team. How did it work out?
What is the most important thing you have learned from your previous experience that you will bring to this job?
What skill or attribute is your greatest strength? What skill or attribute of yours needs improvement?
What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
Why do you think you’ll be successful in this job?
What do you anticipate will be your greatest challenge in this job?
What questions do you have for me?