Posted November 20, 2005 to Interviews | Section Home | Print

Handling Bad Interview Questions

Any question that delves into your private life and does not have a direct bearing on your qualifications for a job is illegal in a job interview. How should you respond if it happens? “It depends on your level of interest in the job and the extent to which you may wish to jeopardize your chances of getting an offer,” said Michael Lebeau, M.Ed., assistant director of UAB Career Services. “No matter if you decide to answer or decline, respond in a manner that is graceful and professional. Do not overreact, accuse, directly confront or react in a self-righteous or defensive manner. Be positive in your response. You can always discuss the issue after you’ve been hired.”