The interviewer wants to hear your logic and your communication skills in action.
Interviewers sometimes throw in wacky or unexpected questions to assess a candidate’s ability to think logically and communicate their thought process clearly. These questions may sound intimidating—such as estimating how many baseballs fit in a jumbo jet or choosing a shape to represent yourself—but they are not meant to have a single right answer. Instead, they help interviewers understand how you approach problem-solving under pressure.
The best way to handle these questions is to structure your response: pause to gather your thoughts, give a direct answer, explain your reasoning in logical steps, and confirm that the interviewer has what they need. For instance, if asked about the number of baseballs in a jumbo jet, break the problem into estimations of the plane’s dimensions and the baseballs’ size, leading to a reasonable conclusion. Similarly, for abstract questions like choosing a shape, align your answer with qualities relevant to the job, such as selecting an arrow to symbolize forward-thinking and determination.
Mastering these tricky questions can set you apart in interviews by demonstrating confidence, critical thinking, and effective communication. Want to hear expert insights and practical examples on handling wacky interview questions with ease? Tune in to this episode of The Interviewing Series and be fully prepared for whatever comes your way!
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