Illegal Interview Questions

Master 24 questions about illegal interview topics and learn how to respond professionally.

Question 16 of 24

Do you observe any religious holidays?

  • How to Answer

  • Example Answer

  • Community Answers

Rachelle Enns
Rachelle Enns

Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.

The interviewer should never ask this question but you can choose to play along or you can opt out of the answer tactfully. Asking a question in return is a very smart way to show the interviewer that the question is entirely inappropriate without having to say so in a point-blank manner.

Here are 2 options:

"My favorite holidays to observe are National Bubble Bath Day and National Hangover Day. Are you okay if I observe those? Just kidding, of course. Do you observe any religious holidays?"

OR

"Oh wow, I have never been asked that question in an interview. How is this relevant to the position?"

Please note: If you are asked this question, you are within your rights to leave the interview and make an official complaint to the company's HR department or to your local labor standards board. Do not worry about blowing the interview. You do not want to work for such an irresponsible organization.

Unlock All 24 Illegal Questions

Prepare for inappropriate questions with expert-backed, legally sound responses.

Get Started