Final answer:
It is inappropriate to ask about age, gender, marital status, or any other protected characteristic during a job interview. Applicants can refuse to answer such questions and can contact the EEOC if they feel discriminated against.
Step-by-step explanation:
On employee applications and during interviews, it is not appropriate to ask questions regarding age, gender, marital status, or any other personal characteristics that are protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These protected characteristics include race, color, religion, sex, national origin, and age (40 or older). Employers should focus on asking about an applicant's qualifications and skills related to the job.
Questions like 'What are your strengths and weaknesses?' and 'What do you know about our company?' are good examples of appropriate questions that assess an applicant's fit for the role without delving into protected personal characteristics. If asked an illegal question, applicants have the right to refuse to answer, and if uncomfortable with how they are treated, they can contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
It is essential for both employers and potential employees to be aware of these legal protections to prevent discrimination during the hiring process.