A job interview requires a careful balance between disclosure and discretion, particularly when it comes to personal information. Some details help the interviewer see how you fit into the team; others can put the employer in a compromising legal position or reduce your chances of getting hired. Before you go into an interview, it's helpful to know what information is acceptable and what crosses the line.
Political Beliefs
Unless you're applying for a job with a partisan political organization, your political beliefs should never come up in a job interview. Politics tend to be polarizing; if you express support for the "wrong" candidate or party, it can instantly bias the interviewer against you. What's more, the employer might make unfair judgments or assumptions. The best option is to refrain from commenting or reacting to any political topics. If the interviewer asks a direct question, simply say that you prefer not to mix work and politics.
Personal, Relationship and Family Details
To prevent discrimination, employers are prohibited by law from asking questions about your sexual orientation, your relationship status and your family during a job interview. Help interviewers avoid legal issues by avoiding these subjects, as well. The same goes for age, particularly if you are over 40; avoid mentioning your age to head off problems with age discrimination. Doing so can also help you avoid triggering an unconscious or conscious bias. While it might feel inauthentic to avoid mentioning such important factors, keep in mind that they have no bearing on your ability to do a job.
Proprietary Details
It's natural for former employers to come up during a job interview, but take care not to reveal proprietary information as you describe past projects and responsibilities. Don't discuss your personal struggles with specific clients or colleagues, and avoid any details that could cast a client or employer in a bad light. Other taboo subjects include indelicate details about your experiences and confidential information about past projects. Rising above these matters can be a challenge, particularly when you had a bad experience or you're privy to juicy insider gossip, but it is crucial you stay away from these topics. After all, if you reveal secret details about past jobs, the interviewer may easily assume you'll do the same in the future.
Personal Struggles
Personal struggles impact your life and your work, but they have little to no place in a job interview. In some cases, you may need to reveal personal information to explain a gap in a resume or a sudden change of careers; in that case, keep it simple and sober, and move on quickly. Otherwise, stay away from topics such as recent illnesses, a divorce, family trouble or a lengthy period of unemployment. These issues can create discomfort and make the employer wonder whether or not you have the time and attention to dedicate to the job.
Carefully chosen personal details can enhance your job interview and humanize you as a candidate. By staying away from sensitive or illegal topics, you can leave interviewers with a positive, professional impression.
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