Loyola University Chicago

Human Resources

Interview Questions to Avoid

Loyola University Chicago is committed to filling each vacancy with the candidate that is the best fit for the position without regard for race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or religion (except where religion is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification for the job), national origin or ancestry, sex, age, marital status, veteran's status, physical or mental handicap/disability, or any other classification protected by applicable law. 

You cannot ask any question during an interview that are related to an applicant’s race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, sexual orientation or disability. The following questions are merely a few of the question that should not be asked: 

Questions to Avoid:

  • Are you a U.S. citizen?
  • Where were you born?
  • What is your birth date?
  • How old are you?
  • Do you have a disability?
  • Are you married or do you have a partner?
  • What is your spouse’s name?
  • What is your maiden name?
  • Do you have any children?
  • Do you have child care arrangements?
  • What is your race or ethnic origin?
  • What church do you attend?
  • What is your religion?
  • How far is your commute?
  • Do you live nearby? 
  • What clubs or social organizations do you belong to?
  • Where were you/your parents born?
  • What is your native language?
  • What is your country of citizenship?
  • Were you honorably discharged from the military?
  • Are you a member of the National Guard or Reserves?
  • Have you ever been arrested?
  • Have you had any recent or past illnesses or operations?
  • Do you have any disabilities?

 *The below questions should be asked only when there is a bona fide, job-specific reason to ask them. If asked of one candidate, they should be asked of all candidates for the same position. 

Acceptable Alternative Questions: 

  • Do you have any responsibilities that conflict wit the job’s attendance or travel requirements?
  • Are you able to work in the United States on an unrestricted basis?
  • Are you able to perform the duties on the job description with or without reasonable accommodations?
  • Have you ever been convicted of a felony crime?
  • If hired, can you provide proof that you are at least 18 years of age?
  • Do you have any conflicts that would prevent you from working the schedule discussed?
  • What languages do you speak or write fluently?
  • Have you worked under any other professional name or nickname?
  • Do you have any relatives currently working for this institution?
  • Would you have any problem working overtime, if required?
  • Would anything prohibit you from making a long-term commitment to the position and the institution?