When you go in for an interview, the interviewer may begin by making small talk. It seems like they’re just trying to be friendly and get to know you. They start to ask you about your family life, such as asking if you’re married or if you’re planning to have children in the future.
If this happens to you, it’s important to know that the interviewer may already have violated your rights. There are certain things that interviewers are prohibited from asking, and these types of questions can become problematic. Asking about marital status, pregnancy status or just family status in general—such as asking a single person if they have children—could lead to allegations of discrimination.
Why would employers discriminate?
Often, employers are just thinking about the business. This can lead to discrimination when they think they’re just making the best decision for the company.
For example, say that you revealed to the interviewer that you are married, and you and your spouse just tied the knot last summer. You do want to start a family in the future, but you’re not sure exactly when that will be.
As a result, the employer decides not to hire you. You’re perfectly qualified for the job, but they know that you may be requesting maternity leave in the next few years. They decide to hire another candidate, such as a man who does not have the capacity to get pregnant. You’ve now faced pregnancy discrimination and gender discrimination, all because of the questions the interviewer asked you.
What are your legal options?
Discrimination happens often, but it is illegal. If it’s happened to you, it’s important to know exactly what legal options you have, and it can help to work with an experienced law firm.