Many find themselves in that awkward situation where bizarre questions
were asked during an interview and had to fight for their career-life by
giving an answer in less than 2 minutes.
Questions like do you believe in Bigfoot? Are you more of a hunter or a
gatherer? If you were 80 years old, what would you tell your children?
Might sound like jokes to you but employers around the globe are more
and more asking unexpected and weird questions to test the creativity
and wit of job candidates. While it's impossible for you to know the
answer for all the questions you could be asked; you should demonstrate
your skills and expertise, good judgment and knowledge about the
industry.
In this article we will suggest steps you should follow when you're
faced with an unusual or merely difficult question during a job
interview.
1. Buy some time:
Your first response to a difficult question should be
an attempt to buy you more time. In order to that, try to say something
like "That's a very interesting question, I've never gotten that one
before", or "I haven't really thought about that before but thank you
for asking" ; this will help you think about the question and formulate a
clear and satisfying answer.
2. Ask for clarification:
It's completely legitimate to ask for clarification
if you're not sure you're not sure you fully understood. For example, if
the interviewer has asked: "How many coins would you need to fill this
room?" you can say "interesting question; do you need a rough estimation
or given the exact height and width of this room?" or "you mean if the
room is empty or as is?". Asking these questions will also buy you more
time.
3. Demonstrate how you think:
The purpose of asking such questions is that modern employers would
like to dig into candidates' minds and psyches to see who's got what it
takes to handle the job. They are not looking for the "right" answer
when they ask you that bizarre question about the giraffe and the
fridge.
Be sure to articulate your reasoning when you respond to these types of
questions. For example, if you were asked what kind of animal would you
be and your answer is cat; explain why a cat best represents you. You
can mention that you are both curious and quick but make sure you
reference qualities which are in line with the job you're applying to.
4. Match Your Skills to the Job:
Most interview questions are designed to determine if
you have the right skills or qualities to excel at the job. Make sure
you are ready to link your strengths and abilities to the problem the
question is tackling. Mention how you have used your skills and
abilities to succeed in past projects.
5. Don't stress over it:
If you are totally stumped by the question, let the interviewer know
that you can't think of an answer right now. Don't let your inability to
respond make you anxious for the rest of the interview. If possible,
share a response later in the interview or in your follow-up
communications.
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