Interviews. Those nerve-wracking rituals where candidates desperately attempt to present themselves as the epitome of professionalism, while simultaneously trying not to sweat through their suits. It's a test of wit, charm, and the ability to talk about one's "biggest weakness"without accidentally declaring an addiction to reality TV. But just when you think you've heard every possible question under the sun, along comes an employer who decides to spice things up with a query so bizarre, so utterly bewildering, it leaves you questioning not only your career choices but the very fabric of reality itself.
Because let's be honest, some interview questions make you wonder if the employer has been watching too many episodes of a particularly surreal TV show, where the end goal is to stump the contestant with the most nonsensical query imaginable. So, in honour of those brave souls who have faced the weirdest inquiries the business world has to offer, let's take a look at some of the strangest questions ever asked in an interview.
1. The Philosophical Enigma
Picture this: you're sitting in a brightly lit office, desperately trying to exude confidence, when the interviewer leans in and asks:
"If you could be any type of vegetable, what would you be and why?"
Right. Because clearly, no decision-making process is complete without a deep dive into your opinion on root vegetables. Do you answer carrot for its vibrant optimism, or broccoli for its resilience? Heaven forbid you choose potato and get labeled as beige and boring.
The truth? They probably want to see how you handle the unexpected. But honestly, it's hard not to be suspicious that the interviewer may have a side gig as a vegetable performance artist.
2. The Musical Enquiry
Then there’s the interviewer who, for reasons known only to themselves, decides to gauge your suitability for the role by asking:
"If you were a song, what song would you be?"
Oh yes, because clearly, your Spotify playlist is the key to professional success. Do you go for a classic like “Eye of the Tiger” to showcase your determination, or perhaps “Here Comes the Sun” to highlight your sunny disposition? Choose wisely, for the wrong answer could have them dubbing you the "Rick Astley"of the office, forever stuck in an endless cycle of 80s nostalgia.
3. The Superpower Selection
Ah, the age-old question beloved by employers and comic book fans alike:
"If you could have any superpower, what would it be?"
The idea here is probably to see what you value most: speed, strength, invisibility? But let's be real, the true superpower we all desire is the ability to breeze through life without having to answer questions like this in a job interview.
Of course, if you're feeling cheeky, you could always say "mind-reading"to subtly imply you’re not entirely convinced by their interviewing skills.
4. The Zoological Quandary
And then there’s the classic question that somehow makes its way into almost every quirky interview:
"If you were an animal, what animal would you be?"
Surely the candidate who declares themselves a lion is clearly the natural leader, while the one who opts for sloth has likely just given up all hope of ever getting the job, or indeed, leaving the interview room.
The best part? No matter what you choose, you'll forever be known as the “Elephant Guy” or “Octopus Lady” to your potential future colleagues.
5. The Culinary Conundrum
You're almost at the end of the interview, and just when you think it’s all gone smoothly, they throw this curveball at you:
"If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?"
Suddenly, you're no longer interviewing for a job. You're on a deserted island, weighing the pros and cons of pizza versus sushi like your life depends on it.
While the real reason behind this question may be to assess your quick thinking and adaptability, it’s a slippery slope that could end with a heated debate about the merits of avocado toast.
6. The Time Machine Dilemma
Last but not least, there’s the employer who wants to know:
"If you could travel back in time, what advice would you give your past self?"
Do you tell teenage you to buy Bitcoin? Or do you take the high road and say something about enjoying the journey and learning from mistakes?
Either way, you’re left wondering what kind of company you’re about to join and whether they’ve been secretly plotting a time travel start-up on the side.
Need to Recruit Without the Riddles?
If you’ve ever found yourself on the receiving end of one of these wild questions, it might be time to reassess your hiring process. At Coburg Banks, we promise not to ask you about your vegetable preferences or superpowers - unless, of course, you want us to.
We focus on real questions that get to the heart of what makes a candidate truly fit for the role. So, if you’re looking to hire without the bizarre inquisition, get in touch.
We’ll help you find the right person, no philosophical enigmas required.
