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JOURNAL OF LEADERSHIP, ACCOUNTABILITY AND ETHICS
Spousal Interviews of Applicants for Employment: A Legal and Ethical Dilemma
Author(s): Gary Waldron
Citation: Gary Waldron, (2012) "Spousal Interviews of Applicants for Employment: A Legal and Ethical Dilemma," Journal of Leadership, Accountability and Ethics, Vol. 9, Iss. 2, pp. 119 - 128
Article Type: Research paper
Publisher: North American Business Press
Abstract:
This article analyzes the legal and ethical issues of an employer asking a job applicant to provide his/her
spouse for an interview, presumably to inquire whether the spouse is aware of the applicant’s job
duties/requirements. These interviews are permitted under many state laws, while forbidden for most
federal employment interviews. Aside from the legality of the interview, the associated ethical
philosophies that may impact the decision to interview an applicant’s spouse are discussed. The practical
implications of interviewing the applicant’s spouse are the most important consideration in determining
the wisdom of the spousal interview.
