What type of questions should be avoided during interviews according to the EEOC?

Questions regarding age or date of birth should be avoided during interviews according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) because they can lead to age discrimination. The EEOC enforces federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee based on age (40 or older). Such questions can bias the interviewer’s perception of the candidate’s suitability for the position based on age stereotypes.

In contrast, inquiries about a candidate's skills and qualifications, prior job performance, and availability for overtime are all relevant to assessing whether the candidate is a good fit for the role. These types of questions help employers evaluate the abilities and work ethic of the candidates without infringing on their rights or opening the door to discriminatory practices. Therefore, adhering to EEOC guidelines involves focusing on the candidate's professional capabilities rather than personal attributes like age.