Expecting the unexpected interview questions
8 July 2021 at 12:52 pm
Have you been thrown a curveball question in your job interview? Here’s how you can handle it like a pro
You’ve done your research, you’ve done practice interviews, you’ve got your notebook handy, and you’re feeling ready to smash your job interview.
But then, out of nowhere, the interviewer throws a completely unexpected and pretty abstract question at you.
This could be anything from what kind of tree or animal you would be if you had a choice, or why are manholes round.
No matter how much preparation you do for an interview, there’s always a chance this will happen. Face it, you’re not a mind reader.
Answering a curveball question will be difficult, but there are ways you can work around it, which is why we’ve rounded up some helpful tips to deal with the unexpected.
Keep calm and carry on
Understandably, the first thing you might feel like doing when faced with a tricky question is to run out of the interview room. This is definitely something you shouldn’t do. Instead, take a few deep breaths, drink some water, and then think about how to approach the answer. You do have time (even if you don’t feel like you do) so make sure you take it before launching into a 10 minute answer that doesn’t really make sense.
Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification
If you really are baffled by the question, there’s no harm in asking your interviewer a couple of follow up questions that might help you reframe what they are asking you in a way you understand. This will not only buy you some time, but show that you are willing to work around challenges even if you’re not sure how to tackle them at first.
Think about what you do know and what you’re applying for
It’s important that all of your answers demonstrate why you are the perfect person for the job. So think back to the position description and the key qualities and skills you have that match up with what they are looking for and go from there. Questions like these are often intended to see how you think logically and creatively, so think outside the box and answer honestly.
Are you on the lookout for a new job in the for-purpose sector? Head to Pro Bono Australia careers for a great selection of job opportunities right across the social economy.
