Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Entrepreneurship Practice Test

Which one of the following questions is acceptable to ask in an employment interview?

1. What is your age?

2. Do you have any children?

3. Are you a member of a union?

4. Have you ever been convicted of a felony?

The correct answer is: Have you ever been convicted of a felony?

The question regarding whether a candidate has ever been convicted of a felony is acceptable to ask in an employment interview because it pertains directly to an applicant’s background and suitability for the position they are applying for. Employers have a legitimate interest in understanding a candidate's criminal history, especially if the conviction could impact their ability to perform the job or if the job involves trust and safety considerations. Asking about felony convictions can help employers ensure a safe workplace and make informed hiring decisions. Many organizations are legally permitted to ask about criminal records, and this question can help ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. In contrast, questions about age, children, or union membership may lead to potential discrimination. For instance, asking a candidate about their age may violate age discrimination laws and could unintentionally bias the hiring process. Similarly, inquiries about a candidate's children could be seen as intrusive and irrelevant to their professional qualifications, potentially leading to biases against parents or caregivers. Questions related to union membership could also be problematic, as they may touch on personal beliefs and affiliations that are not relevant to job performance. Thus, the question regarding felony convictions is distinguished by its relevance to the position and the protection it offers for workplace safety.