Hand stop shown by businessman.Which interview question has the potential to be discriminatory under federal law?

A.  Why did you leave your last job?
B.  This job requires you to lift 10-pounds. Are you able to lift at least 10-pounds with or without reasonable accommodations?
C.  Are you a U.S. Citizen?
D.  Who is the best manager you ever worked for and why?

The answer is option C. Asking an applicant if they are a U.S. citizen may be looked at as a discriminatory interview question. In order to work in the United States, employees are required to show proof that they are eligible to work in the United States. With this said, instead of asking “Are you a U.S. Citizen,” an employer may ask an applicant in the interview process if they can show proof of their eligibility to work in the United States.

For more great information on the hiring process, be sure to read “Hiring Dos and Don’ts”.