Imagine walking into an interview, feeling prepared to answer standard questions about your experience and skills. But instead, the interviewer asks, “How would you survive a zombie apocalypse?” or “If you had to sell this pen to an alien, how would you do it?” Sounds bizarre, right? Yet, these kinds of questions have been asked in real interviews at top companies.
In 2017, an applicant at Airbnb was asked, “If you had a choice between being invisible or flying, which would you choose?” Meanwhile, candidates at Google have faced “How many cows are there in Canada?” and Tesla interviewees have been thrown “If you were stranded on a deserted island with only one item, what would it be?”
These questions may seem absurd, but they serve a purpose. Let’s dive into why HR professionals ask them and how you can prepare to ace your next interview!
Why Do HRs Ask Unusual Questions?
While traditional interview questions focus on skills and experience, odd questions help HR assess deeper aspects of a candidate’s personality and thinking process. Here’s why they do it:
To Test Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
Companies want to see how candidates think outside the box. A unique response can showcase originality and quick thinking.
To Evaluate Critical Thinking
Some questions test logical reasoning and analytical skills. HR wants to see how you break down problems and find solutions.
To Gauge Personality and Cultural Fit
Spontaneous responses can reveal more about your personality than rehearsed answers. Employers assess if you align with the company’s culture.
To Observe How You Handle Unexpected Situations
Workplaces are full of surprises. How you react to an unusual question may indicate how you adapt to challenges on the job.
To Make Interviews More Engaging
Let’s be honest—interviews can be repetitive. A quirky question lightens the mood and makes the session more memorable for both the candidate and the interviewer.
Examples of Weird Interview Questions from Global Companies
Still skeptical? Some of the world’s biggest companies have asked bizarre questions in job interviews. Here are a few examples:
- Google: “How many basketballs can fit inside a Boeing 747?”
(Tests estimation and problem-solving skills) - Apple: “If you were an app, what would you be and why?”
(Evaluates creativity and self-awareness) - Amazon: “How would you explain the color blue to someone who has been blind since birth?”
(Measures communication skills and abstract thinking) - Microsoft: “Why are manhole covers round?”
(Checks logical reasoning and ability to justify design decisions)
How to Answer Weird Interview Questions Like a Pro
If you’re caught off guard by an odd question, don’t panic! Here’s how you can handle it smartly:
- Stay Calm and Confident
Take a moment to think before answering. The interviewer isn’t expecting a perfect answer—just a thoughtful one. - Understand the Purpose Behind the Question
Try to figure out what skill or trait they are testing. Is it creativity? Problem-solving? Adaptability? - Use Logical Thinking
If the question requires estimation (e.g., how many tennis balls fit in a bus), break the problem down step by step. - Be Creative and Relatable
If you’re asked which superhero power you’d like, relate it to the job. For example, “I’d love to have super speed, so I can complete tasks efficiently and meet deadlines effortlessly.” - Have Fun with It
Some questions are meant to see how you react under pressure. Show your personality and use humor if appropriate!
Final Thoughts
Weird interview questions aren’t designed to trick you—they’re meant to reveal how you think, react, and fit into a company’s culture. Instead of fearing them, see them as an opportunity to showcase your creativity and problem-solving abilities.
So, the next time an HR interviewer in Singapore throws an unusual question at you, embrace it with confidence and answer it like a pro!