Even though questions are the basis of every job interview, there are certain types of questions an employment agency should never ask during their interviews. Some of these questions may not just appear demeaning and irrelevant to the candidate, but also they may make the candidate have certain doubts about the job or the organization.

Here are some questions which must be avoided at all times:

Have you ever been to jail?

If a background check is part of the recruiting, then an employer should have better ways of finding out if the candidate has ever been on the wrong side of the law. If this question needs to be asked, then it should be framed in a friendly and better way such as, “have you ever been convicted of any crime in the past?”

Do you intend to have kids?

This is very inappropriate, especially when asked to female candidates. It is not just insensitive, but also gives the impression that the employer wouldn’t want the employee to have kids if a position is offered. It may also create the notion that you will consider them the least because of the need to pay maternity leave.

How often did you take sick leave in your last company?

By asking this question, an employer is being very rude and judgmental. There are better ways to try and gauge the candidate’s regularity and absence from work. For instance, an employer can ask about a lapse in their CV, any pre-existing medical conditions, or perhaps how they deal with regular office stress.

Are you a social smoker or drinker?

Such a question is irrelevant in a job interview, even if you were interviewing for a religious position. Whether or not a candidate drinks or smokes should be of no concern to the organization. An employer’s greatest concern should be regarding the candidate’s suitability for the job and their professional commitment.