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How to tackle inappropriate interview questions

Tough job interview questions video tips:

Bite-sized video advice guide with Fiona Wood, head of recruitment for PA, reception, secretarialHR and admin jobs
 
Occasionally in an interview you’ll be asked questions you’re not comfortable answering. Questions like, “How old are you?” or “Are you married?” While these are technically illegal, they’re quite often asked with harmless intent. So you can go one of two ways with your answer...



Getting personal 
"Let’s say you’ve been asked if you have children. You’re within your rights to tell the interviewer that this has no relevancy on your ability to do the role, but that might come off a bit aloof and suggest a lack of flexibility. A question like this often comes with a deeper meaning – are you going to be able to work late if needed? Are you flexible on working hours?."
 

Here are some good examples 

Q:"Do you have children?"

A:“I’ve had children for as long as I’ve been working in PA roles. My husband and I are both committed to excelling in our careers and we have a really great support network of child care in place to make sure there’s no overlap between the two.”
 
Q: "How old are you?"
 
A:“I guess what you’re asking here is, “Do I have the experience to do the job?” So let me answer by saying I’ve been working in HR jobs for over 5 years across a number of different disciplines, so I think I have what it takes to do this job.”
 

Like what Fiona had to say? Contact her here to find out more about office support jobs.

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