Employers are prohibited from asking job candidates certain questions.  But sometimes, because of ignorance or a misunderstanding of the law, employers will ask questions that are illegal or simply inappropriate.  So what should a job candidate do?  Below are a few sample questions and possible responses job candidates can use to make the best out of an awkward situation:

Q:  Are you a citizen of the United States? 

A: I have a right to work in the U.S. and a valid have a social security number.

Explanation:  Job candidates are not required to disclose their citizenship status to an employer; but they are required to prove they are authorized to work in the United States.

Q: What church do you attend?

A: Oh, my religious obligations won’t conflict with the work schedule.

Explanation: In their effort to accommodate all faiths some employers make the mistake of asking a job candidate about their religious background.  The only thing a candidate needs to disclose is whether or not they can commit to the work schedule.

Q: How old are you?

A:  I’m definitely well over 18 years old and even have my drivers license. (This can be said in a joking manner.)

Explanation: Employers are forbidden from asking a job candidate about their age; but when/if it does happen, candidates should just make sure they emphasize the fact that they are old enough to work.