Interview for a Job or a Date?

by Lisa
(Palmyra, NJ)

Many years ago when I was just starting out in the business world a potential employer asked me a question that was not only crazy, but it was also highly inappropriate.

As I sat across the desk from him in my freshly ironed suit answering the basic interview questions with the answers I had dutifully practiced, the potential employer threw me off guard by asking me, "Are you single, and would you be interested in a workplace romance?"

This question was asked in a manner befitting Larry the Lounge Lizard, and coupled with a leering grin that made me feel as if I was wearing a see-through nightie instead of my brand new business suit!

I stammered a reply that telegraphed that I wasn't interested and the interview was quickly over.

Now, these days when most companies are very mindful of sexual harassment laws, this kind of blatant come on is unlikely to occur, but that doesn't mean that you should be unprepared for the possibility.

You may never be asked direct questions in regard to your romantic status, but picking up on clues that the person interviewing you may be interested in more than a good employee will save you trouble down the line. Some things to look out for:

-The person conducting the interview pays you several personal compliments unrelated to your work experience.

-The person conducting the interview closes the physical gap between you (comes around the desk, sits closer, etc).

-The person conducting the interview holds your handshake too long, touches you in seemingly harmless ways (hand on arm, small of back, etc).

Don't discount your own gut feelings! If you feel that the person interviewing you is looking at you like a potential date rather than a potential employee, chances are you're right.