MANKATO AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS Independent School District No. 77 INTERVIEWING GUIDELINES “The purpose of the interview is to develop a more complete understanding of each candidate's strengths, weaknesses and qualifications for the position. Bach candidate should be asked the same questions. Each question does not have to be read verbatim, but a high level of consistency in the way the question is presented to each candidate should be maintained, and the basic nature of the question should not be changed. It is acceptable to ask a follow-up question to a candidate's answer if you need clarification. Questions involving protected status may not be asked. The areas that are protected are: + Race + National origin + Color + Sex + Creed + Age + Marital status + Disability + Public assistance status + Sexual orientation While direct questions (¢.g., “How old are you?”) are obviously prohibited, so are questions in which the answer may provide information about a protected status. Topics that should be avoided include: + Place of birth + US. citizenship + Credit history + Applicant’s lineage + Maiden name + Pregnanoy/child birth + Plans for a family + Ages of children + Child care arrangements + Spouse’s identity + Marital status + Emergency contact + Health history + Life style issues + Date of birth + Dates of graduation + Dates of military service + Religious affiliation Topics that may be addressed include: + Employment history + Unexcused work absences + Skills and work habits Names of references + Interest in position ‘Any questions the candidate may ask concerning the terms and conditions of employment should be answered by the central office or administrative representative on the interview team.