Recently, my friend attended an interview with a local software company. He was asked about his relationship status and some other personal questions. He wasn't comfortable answering such questions.
Is it right to ask such questions in the interview? How should the candidate handle such situations, where he is asked questions that are personal in nature or those he doesn't want to answer?
Unless it is against the local law to ask such questions, the interviewer can ask whatever he wants. There is no "right" or "wrong" about it.
It is upto the candidate whether he wants to answer the question or not, and how he chooses to evaluate the company based on the interview questions asked.
If the candidate doesn't want to answer the question, all he needs to do is decline politely.
I am sorry, I don't feel comfortable answering that question. I would prefer not to answer it.
(or something equivalent)
Note that an interview is a two-way street. As a candidate, I wouldn't rate a company too highly if in order to evaluate me for a Software Architect role, they need to know about my spouse's hobbies or my kid's name.
How should the candidate handle such situations, where he is asked questions that are personal in nature or those he doesn't want to answer?
If you are asked questions that you don't want to answer for any reason, simply decline politely.
Something like "I'm sorry, I don't feel comfortable answering that question." would suffice.
Of course, declining to answer an interview question isn't usually perceived as a good thing by the interviewer. And it could cause a rejection.
Still, if you feel strongly that you don't want to answer any question - don't.
Have you considered being vague?
With the specific question, of "What is your marital status?" I'd probably answer something like "Good, thank you."
Its vague, sounds like an answer, is plausible, and doesn't come across like a harsh rejection or stone-walling.
There is no "Right Answer" to this question. And you're coming across as someone who can communicate.
Other possible answers might include:
"Its complicated, but these things generally are"
"Flat-out... there's a lot going on in my life and its time for a new job opportunity."
"It's quiet... too quiet...."
Or even turn it around with a follow-on like "and yourself?...."
Yes - this is slightly tongue-in-cheek but remember an interview is a two-way process where ideally you learn about the company as they learn about you and your potential fit. So developing a rapport with the interviewer helps.
Asking such personal questions is nothing but a pressure test,That how can you you deal with your personal life and social life.It is a test where you are tested for your balance making skills between personal life and work life.
