Which of the following is a lawful inquiry an interviewer can make?

• A. Asking about race.
• B. Asking whether the applicant has any questions and respecting the applicant's privacy.
• C. Asking about marital status.
• D. Asking the applicant's age.

Answer: (B)

In interviewing, lawful inquiries are those that focus on job-related qualifications and the ability to perform duties, while respecting the applicant’s privacy and avoiding protected characteristics. Inviting the applicant to ask questions and signaling respect for privacy demonstrates appropriate, non-discriminatory conduct and openness to dialogue. This keeps the discussion centered on relevant information and the candidate’s fit for the role, rather than personal or protected attributes. Questions about race, marital status, or age can imply bias or run afoul of employment laws, so they’re not appropriate in this context. Therefore, asking whether the applicant has any questions and respecting privacy is the correct, lawful approach.