Ace Your Interview with These 10 Unexpected Questions
Ah, job interviews. The mere thought of them can send shivers down your spine. What should I wear? What if I mess up on a question? The list goes on and on. Although there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, the best way to make an impression is to be prepared for anything. And by anything, we mean unexpected questions. What do we mean? We’ve compiled a list of 10 questions that will catch you off guard – but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What's the most recent thing you've learned, and how did you learn it?
This question is all about your willingness to learn and grow. Employers are looking for candidates who constantly look out for ways to improve themselves. Thus, using a real-life example of something you recently learned (such as a new language or technical skill), and the steps you took to learn it will show that you have the drive and determination to succeed.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
While this question may seem totally random, it actually gives the interviewer insight into your personality and interests. Whatever answer you give, be prepared to explain why and what you would hope to gain from the experience.
What's your favorite book?
Your answer says a lot about you! Make sure you’re prepared to explain why you enjoy the book and how it applies to your life.
Tell me about a time when you failed. What did you learn?
This is a tricky one. You don’t want to focus on your mistakes throughout an interview, but you do want to show that you can accept failure and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Be sure to provide specific examples and how you’ve used the lessons learned to improve in the future.
How do you respond to feedback?
Asking this question helps the interviewer understand how you receive criticism and respond to it. Be prepared to answer the question while giving real-life examples of how you’ve responded positively to feedback in the past.
What's the most creative solution you've ever come up with?
This question is all about your ability to think outside the box. Provide an example of a situation in which you were asked to come up with a creative solution to a problem and how you applied your thinking.
Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult team member.
This question is all about how you work with other people. It’s important to show that you are not afraid to tackle challenges and work well with others, even when personalities clash. Show how you were able to find common ground and work together to accomplish a common goal.
What's the biggest risk you've ever taken?
This question is all about your ability to evaluate and take calculated risks. Be prepared to share an experience and how you managed the risk, whether it resulted in success or failure.
Tell me about your most significant accomplishment.
This question provides the interviewer with insight into what you’re proud of and how you achieved success. Be prepared to give specific examples and explain why it matters to you and how it can apply to your future career.
If you could go back and change one decision you've made in the past, what would it be?
This final question is all about reflection. It’s important to show that you are able to evaluate yourself and your decision-making process. Be prepared to use real-life examples to explain your answer.
Making a lasting impression in a job interview requires preparation and a good amount of self-reflection. By getting some practice answering unexpected questions, you will be better equipped to handle any curveball that comes your way. After all, when it comes to job interviews, the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to stand out from the crowd.