Q & A: Job Interview - Weird questions, how to handle? 12/19/2005 8:15:57 AM
Q: Recently in a group interview (5 job applicants, 3 hiring
personnel), we were each asked why the company should hire
the person next to us. Why do you think companies ask such
weird questions? How should I have handled it differently?
A: Sometimes, hiring managers ask unusual questions to get
some insight into your mental analysis of the question, or
sometimes for curiosity purposes. Some answers that are
provided can be very comical, in fact, breaking up the
monotony. The logical way of answering is by playing up your
"competitors" and their abilities and track records, all the
while you desperately want and need the position. You might
grit your teeth, providing an answer much different than the
one that is swimming around in your head.
Boasting the abilities of the another candidates doesn't
help your job-search campaign, does it? It's almost a trick
question, right up there with "If you were a car, what make
and model would you be?" These lines of questions don't
offer a true depiction of a person's tenacity, loyalty,
ability, and work ethic.
Think about answering kindly and professionally (and keep a
slight smile on your face) with, "Well, I didn't show up
here to market my competitors, no more than I will sell your
competitor's products while under your employment. When I
believe in a product, I stick with it. In this case, I am
the product. Would you like me to go into detail on why
these other candidates believe I should have the position?"
The next time you're put in a position to answer an unusual
interviewing question, don't be afraid to have fun with it.
Crack a joke; be playful with your response. Remember, jobs
not only go to the most qualified person but to the one that
the interviewer(s) related to the best.
