What Can Be Asked on a Job Application?
Job applications provide employers with a standardized method of receiving information about applicants. However, there are limitations to the questions an employer can ask. Questions about race, age and familial status are forbidden on a job application to prevent discrimination. Instead, employers pose questions that focus on applicant attributes that contribute to the job.
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Work Authorization
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Employers must establish that you are legally permitted to pursue a job before beginning the interview or hiring process. Asking directly about citizenship can be construed as a question about the racial or cultural background of an applicant. Instead, many employers inquire as to your legal authorization to work in the United States. This question is relevant to the position and does not require a discussion of ethnic background.
Legal Working Age
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Applicants 18 and older are eligible to work in most companies. However, minors are allowed to occupy certain positions as long as they have a current work permit. Employers may inquire whether you are 18 or older to learn which category you fall into. If the applicant answers "no," the employer knows to request further documentation that the individual is authorized to work via a permit.
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Education Level
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A job application can be a tool used to weed out applicants who don't meet the minimum qualifications. For example, jobs that require a college degree generally request an applicant's education level. The employer may request the name, address and contact information of the college or university you attended, as well as your concentration of study. When the employer conducts a background check, he can verify your claims against your educational records.
Job Skills
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Before interviewing an applicant, an employer can review qualifications listed on a job application to learn how well the applicant fits into the company culture. In your statement of qualifications, you have the opportunity to make your application stand out from the competition. Listing talents and past successes relevant to the position increases your chances of success.
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