09/10/2026
Be informed about what employers can and can't ask during an job interview.
You can respond to illegal or inappropriate questions by:
• Redirecting back to your qualifications
• Reading between the lines; consider the motivation behind the question and speak to that
• Asking them to clarify how the question is relevant
• Using sense of humour to assert your legal right to refuse to answer (e.g. if you are asked about your criminal background during an initial interview, you may divert the question by asking if there is an offer of employment on the table)
• Responding with neutrality if small talk brings up controversial or potentially personally incriminating topics.
Do not feel pressured to answer any question in an interview that makes you feel uncomfortable. Remain polite and redirect back to your qualifications.
Follow for more interview tips, and connect with us for personalized help with your job search:
https://jhsemploymentservices.ca/job-seekers