A good interviewer will rarely ask this question so directly. If this question is asked this directly, simply ask the person something like, "What is it you would like to know?" In this way you show them that you have nothing to hide. More often, interviewers use casual and friendly conversation to get the information they want. In most cases, the interviewer is digging for information that would indicate you are unstable or undependable.
Other issues may be of concern to an employer as well. Often, these are based on assumptions the person has about people with certain characteristics. These beliefs are often irrelevant (and some may seem to be in bad taste or even illegal), but if the employer wonders whether you can be depended upon, dealing with these doubts is in your own best interest. Be aware that even your casual conversation should always avoid reference to a potential problem area. In responding to a question about your personal situation, be friendly and positive. Your objective is to give employers the answer that they need to have, not just the one they may seem to ask. See chapter 5 for guidelines on handling illegal questions.
Examples of Appropriate Answers
The following responses address the personal issues that employers are
most concerned about.
Young children at home:
"I have two children, both in school. Child care is no problem because they stay with a good friend."
Single head of household:
"I'm not married and have two children at home. It is very important to me to have a steady income, so child care is no problem."
Young and single:
"I'm not married, and if I should marry, that would not change my plans for a full-time career. For now, I can devote my full attention to my career."
Just moved here:
"I've decided to settle here in Depression Gulch permanently. I've rented an apartment, and the six moving vans are unloading there now."
Relatives, upbringing:
"I am one of three children. Both of my parents still live within an hour's flight from here, and I see them several times a year."
Leisure time:
"My time is family-centered when I'm not working. I'm also active in several community organizations and spend at least some time each week in church activities."
All of these responses could be expanded on, but they should give you an idea of the types of approaches you can take with your own answers. The message you want to give is that your personal situation will not hurt your ability to work and, indeed, could help it. If your personal life does disrupt your work, expect most employers to lose patience quickly. It is not their problem, nor should it be.