In a job interview, I often hear that despite it being illegal, there are questions such as age and sexuality asked. What is a good way to get around this?

Cierra,

Unfortunately, you are left with a situation of either answer the question, be evasive, or call them out on it. If you don't answer the question, you may not get hired. But, if they are asking questions they shouldn't be asking, do you really want to work there? It's possibly a sign of things to come!

Many many years ago, I was asked what I would do if, alone with a male superior, he made inappropriate comments to me. They wanted to know if I would report it. Given it was a male-dominated industry, it was obvious they were trying to weed out snitches. I told them I would handle it myself the first time, but, if it created an uncomfortable work environment after that, then, yes, I would report it. They liked that answer.

Another time, at a police review board, I was asked my plans as far as marriage and family. I literally froze. We stared at each other for a while, and they finally said, "oh, we can't ask that, can we?" I got the job.

There's always the option of filing an EEOC complaint. I've had mixed results with that.

Kim

Agree on this. This comes to the question of being evasive, confrontational, or just to discontinue pursuing the opportunity. At this point, they are asking you something out of bounds. If you call them on it, it may sour the interview, if you evade, it may sour the interview... eh.. it's a no win. In most well-established companies (even most start-ups), Managers, and other interviewers are counseled on what they can and can not ask during an interview. Every company I've been at, age, sexuality, religion, political affiliation... all no-nos... and it was made very clear. If it is something that comes up during an interview, I would avoid the opportunity. It's s sample of more to come.

When the question is asked just smile and politely say to the interviewer.."Oh, when I read the requirement for the job I did not see any reference to your question. The job requirement I read asked for experienced and other related qualification to the job itself. Did I misread the job requirement? If the reply comes back and say yes that it was in it, then you could ask to see it, as you do not know how you could have missed it. (You are being police during this conversation - with a smile). Remember you have no idea why you are being asked this question. It could be a test to see how you respond to difficult people as well - from your co-workers or future clients. Then if they do not show you the part of the job requirement and want to brush it off, you could say that you could not even have imagined that such a question would be in such a professional organization like theirs. If the interveiwer insists that you answer the question, then just be vey policte and say "well Mr/Ms. Name, then I do not think you are the right company for me because I was looking for one that respected the employment laws of whatever country you are in. Then just (always be polite until you leave out of the interview room and office building). Again you never know what they may be testing you for, If they are for real and are indeed a company that has no respect for the laws before you get in, then why would you want to work for such a company in the first place. Leave them and go elsewhere. This is what happened to me once as well. Kind Regards