Are employers allowed to require job applicants to complete a questionnaire?

Yes, employers in Virginia are allowed to require job applicants to complete a questionnaire, but they must ensure that the questionnaire is job-related and free of any type of discriminatory questions or questions that may lead to potential discrimination. Under the Virginia Human Rights Act and other related laws, employers in Virginia cannot discriminate against job applicants based on their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth, age, marital status, status as a handicapped person, or veteran status. The questionnaire must not ask any questions that would lead to potential discrimination. When creating the questionnaire, employers should use questions that are relevant to the job and that do not request irrelevant and personal information from applicants. It is recommended that employers have a neutral third-party review the questionnaire to ensure it is in compliance with the law. To avoid any potential liabilities and misinterpretations, employers should consider providing written instructions on how to answer each question properly, as well as inform applicants that the questionnaire is voluntary and will be used only for the purpose of evaluating their skills and qualifications for the position. Overall, employers in Virginia are allowed to require job applicants to complete a questionnaire, but they need to ensure that the questionnaire is free of discriminatory questions and is relevant to the job they are applying for.

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