I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

Do you have any children? I mean what business is it of theirs? I thought under labor laws, that question was not even allowed to be asked.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

They are not suppossed to ask it because it's illegal but many people do anyway. I have been asked that question twice.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I went on an interview once and the woman asked me if I had kids.

She goes "I sure hope not because that's the reason I have to fill this spot. My last worker decided to up and go have a baby on me"...............followed by a big huge sigh and eye-rolling.

This was years ago though when I was first starting out in my career. A well-known Manhattan social work agency though.

I didn't get the position but it was probably for the best even though I had no kids or intentions to have any way back then.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I was just asked this on an interview last week! I was talking to DH about how I thought it was illegal to ask about children or marital status, but he disagreed with me.

I guess I basically said I was married when I told the interviewer that I wouldn't need health insurance during the salary part of the interview. Towards the end, when it was becoming more of a friendly conversation, she asked if I was married, and then asked if I had kids. I didn't think it was a job related question, per say, so I didn't feel awkward answering.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I've been asked that a few times. I have said that it's not appropriate to ask that question. I said it in a joking manner. I got the job offers anyway.

I think with me and my interviews they tend to get friendly and comfortable so that question comes up. I always decline to answer unless the conversation turns to something where I have to mention my husband in a business related manner.

Volunteering information to make a point is one thing but it's improper to ask on an interview.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

My current boss asked me that and a few other questions, prefacing them with "It's illegal for me to ask you this..." lol I don't mind, they'll know eventually and if it is a problem, better to not get the job than go through all the hassle.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I thought it was illegal to make hiring decisions based on the answer to the question -- but not illegal to ask the question itself.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I recently had a friend who mentioned to an owner that I was looking for work. He asked her if I had kids. She said yes. His answer? "OH." Ahole. 3 days later he hired some man with likely was less expepriance then me without thinking of giving me a chance because I have a kid.

Message edited 10/26/2010 10:46:50 AM.

Re: I thought it was "illegal" to ask this question on an interview

I really thought it was...