Interview Dilemma: Should You Share Personal Family Details When Asked?

Can we disclose our personal information, like details about our family, when asked in an interview? What if we don't have a mom? Can we say that my mom is deceased? Please help me out.

Depending on how the interview is proceeding and structured by the interviewer, you will have to decide. However, as a general rule, you need not volunteer personal information like the one you are basing your question on. All personal information that will help justify your suitability for the job should, of course, be presented tactfully if it is not covered in the interview.

But you must not shy away from handling questions such as those you are concerned about. Share such information if asked, but take care to avoid creating any perceptions that you may be attempting to gain mileage from such personal information.

I trust you have the answer now. If you wish to raise more questions, kindly do not hesitate, as interviews are a critical phase in the recruitment process. They must be handled truthfully but also tactfully!

Regards,
Samvedan

September 16, 2012

No compulsion to answer any of the personal queries unless it's an important round and expressly asked for the answer (usually no one would stress such questions). Be specific and diplomatic during the interview process.

It's based on the interview structure, and you should analyze how the interview is progressing. If you feel it's going beyond the limits, yes, you can share your personal thoughts with HR. HR never shares these things with anyone. It's one of their best qualities.

Why are you feeling like this? Have you experienced anything during your interviews in the past days that made you feel this way?

Understanding Interview Questions About Family

In response to the question, "Tell me about yourself and your family," sometimes recruiters want to check the family background of a candidate to judge their personality, education background, and related aspects. However, it doesn't mean that you must share this information, nor is it mandatory to do so.

I agree with Mr. Samvedan and Mr. BSSV. There is no need to disclose personal details about your family unless specifically asked. Moreover, if you ever face this situation or need to answer, reply without hesitation.