So, a reader asked me recently about how to handle those sneaky “trick” questions during an interview. You know the ones—like when they ask, "What year did you graduate?"

She was worried. If she answered honestly, it could totally give away her age and maybe disqualify her from the job. But if she didn’t answer at all, she feared it might end the interview then and there. Tricky, right?

So, here’s what I told her. There are two key things to keep in mind:

First – This question? It could be illegal!

Now, I’m no lawyer, but hear me out. This type of question doesn’t really have anything to do with how you’d perform on the job. Sure, they might need it later for a background check or something, but during an interview? It’s really just a roundabout way to figure out your age, which is a big no-no in most places.

Second – If they’re asking this, they might not be focused on what actually matters.

You’re worth so much more than the year you graduated! Don’t feel bad about not answering a question like this. If it feels off, you don’t owe them an answer to something that might be crossing a line.

Ever Get Stumped by a Question Like This?

If it happens, my suggestion is to stay cool and give them the benefit of the doubt... at first. Try something like this:

"I’m curious... before I answer this question, what are your objectives? What were you hoping to learn about me?"

There’s about a 50/50 chance the interview might end right there because they’ll get uncomfortable with you calling them out. But hey, that’s their problem—not yours. If they can’t explain their reason (or, better yet, apologize), you’re free to say something like:

"Thanks for your time, but I’m going to pass. I wish you the best in your search."

Why Respond This Way?

Because, frankly, they blew it. End of story.

I know this might sound a bit bold, but here’s the thing: there are two important lessons that will help you avoid these situations from the start.

#1 – Always Have Several Irons in the Fire

When you’ve got multiple options, you’re in a much stronger position. If an interviewer throws a shady question your way, you can just walk away. It gives you all the power.

#2 – Build Relationships Before You Apply

One of the best things you can do is to build relationships with hiring managers or recruiters before you even apply for the job. That way, they already know what you bring to the table. If you just send in a resume out of the blue, they’re more likely to rely on surface-level details like your graduation year, which might lead to awkward questions.