A knockout question should test a genuine non-negotiable condition. If the requirement can be learned, assessed through evidence, or reasonably accommodated, it may not belong here.
| Requirement | Why essential | Candidate-facing question | Accepted answer | Alternative or accommodation route | Human review trigger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Review before publishing
- The requirement is necessary for the actual role.
- The question is asked consistently.
- The question does not ask for protected or irrelevant information.
- Eligibility is not being used as a proxy for nationality or identity.
- A reasonable alternative or accommodation route exists where appropriate.
- The automatic action is explainable.
- Borderline answers can receive human review.
- The requirement is reviewed for each market.
Examples
Good: “Can you reliably work the published Saturday shift?” when Saturday coverage is essential and the schedule is clearly stated.
Poor: “Do you have a certain personality?” Culture fit is not a safe or observable knockout requirement.