Interview Questions that Shouldn't be Asked

To help you prepare for your job interview, here are 24 interview questions that are illegal (in most places) for an interviewer to ask.

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Question 18 of 24

What is your native language?

How to Answer
Answer Example

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:

"I am a fluent in English; both written and oral. I am also pretty good in Pig Latin. What is your native language?"

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.

"I am a fluent in English; both written and oral. I am also pretty good in Pig Latin. What is your native language?"

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How to Answer: What is your native language?

18. What is your native language?

How to Answer

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:

"I am a fluent in English; both written and oral. I am also pretty good in Pig Latin. What is your native language?"

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.

Written by Rachelle Enns

Answer Example

"I am a fluent in English; both written and oral. I am also pretty good in Pig Latin. What is your native language?"

Written by Rachelle Enns

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