Beware
of illegal interview questions, unpreparedness
By
Viviana Cerda
Online Forty-Niner
Contributing Writer
Before an interview starts, the nerves set in. Clammy, shaky hands, with your
resume clutched tightly, you can hardly sit still while you wait to be summoned.
The adrenaline is often enough to make you forget your name, which is why it’s
important to remember the next few tips, and what to do if you are ever asked
something questionable.
Not practicing answers to questions typically asked and a general lack of preparation
are two of the most common mistakes students make before an interview, according
to Angi Carrillo-Humphreys, career counselor at the Career Development Center
(CDC).
“
Students often don’t know what their skills and values are,” Carrillo-Humphreys
said.
Even if you don’t have experience in the field you are hoping to work
in, a stint at the local McDonald’s can yield valuable skills, such as
good customer service, communication skills and the ability to resolve problems,
Carrillo-Humphreys said. These abilities are valuable in any field and will
always prove useful.
“
I was applying for an administrative position at a nearby college, and what
helped me get the job was my volunteer experience with my church,” said
Katie Alvarez, a fourth-year accounting major. “I developed patience
with my peers and with the children, and I learned how to multi-task, and these
are skills I can take anywhere.”
Just as it is important to prepare for traditional interview questions, students
should also beware of illegal interview questions, including age, gender, ethnicity,
to and social or family life.
“
Illegal questions do pop up, although they are not always done on purpose,” Carrillo-Humphreys
said.
Often, the interviewer is trying to be friendly, Carrillo-Humphreys said, although
students should always be aware.
“
During an interview a couple of years ago, the woman interviewing me asked
if I had a boyfriend and if he took up a lot of my time,” Jonae Williamson,
junior communications major said. “I answered because at the time, I
didn’t realize I didn’t have to, and she asked the question in
a friendly way, like it was just between ‘us girls.’”
“
I’ve never been asked an illegal question, but if I was, I think I would
answer it because beggars can’t be choosers, and I would feel like I
had to, to get the job,” said Alan Lemuz, a senior civil engineering
major.
Bottom line, Carrillo-Humphreys said, answer the question if you think it is
not going to hurt your chances of getting the job.
|
