How to Handle Unusual Interview Questions
Posted March 21st, 2016
The introductions and small talk are over, and the job interview has just begun. The interviewer’s first question is something like this, “If they were going to make a movie about your life, what actor would you want to play you?”
Or maybe it might be something like this, “If you could have a superpower, which one would you want,” or “If you were a salad dressing, what kind would you be?”
These are not your run of the mill interview questions. But, from time to time, you may get an interviewer who likes the oddball question now and then and throws one in. How should you handle them?
The first thing to keep in mind is to relax. These are not trick questions because there obviously is no one right answer. The purpose of these questions is simply designed to see how you think, to see how you handle a curve ball and work under stress. How well can you improvise, evaluate situations, and think on your feet?
In answering, take a few moments to think about the question. Don’t let it rattle you. Don’t try to read the interviewer’s mind and tell him or her what you think he wants to hear because odds are you will probably be off the mark anyway.
In answering these questions, it may help to think about the job description and the kinds of things that are included in there. What kinds of things is the company looking for in terms of skills or character traits? See if you can tie your answer to these things. Or, again, you can use your answer to highlight your strengths and skills and how you can add value to the company.
If you are really stumped, rather than just sitting there in silence, work through the answer aloud, let the interviewer know what you are thinking as you ponder the problem. Think out loud. That way the interviewer will get to see how your mind works, how you go about problem solving.
Why should you work with Bayside Solutions? The reason is simple – Bayside is a staffing expert who works to understand your unique skills and needs, and has vast experience working with San Francisco Bay area technology-related industries. Bayside works with companies to place you in the best position, openings ranging from entry level to senior management. We take the time to really understand what your goals are, and then do our best to find opportunities that are right for you. Give Bayside Solutions a call today – for this position or one of the many others available.
