Has Anyone Ever Called Out Stupid Interview Questions?

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, and it's not uncommon for candidates to face questions that seem unfair or ridiculous. This topic has sparked numerous discussions on blogs, social media, and professional forums, with many sharing their experiences from bizarre and irrelevant interview questions.

Common Examples of Stupid Interview Questions

Here are some of the questions that have garnered significant criticism over the years:

Q: If you had one million dollars, how would you use it?

This question often leads to rehearsed answers rather than genuine self-reflection. It can be hard for candidates to provide a meaningful response without feeling like they are sharing a pre-prepared narrative. Furthermore, this question can be unrealistic and puts undue pressure on candidates to predict their financial future, which may have little to do with the job requirements.

Q: If you were a tree, what type of tree would you be?

Some interviewers use brain teasers like this one, which can seem irrelevant to the job responsibilities. Such questions can be frustrating for candidates who might feel that their time would be better spent discussing more pertinent job-related skills and experiences. Critics argue that these types of questions do not effectively assess a candidate's suitability for the role.

Q: What is your favorite snack?

While employers may intend to gauge creativity, many find such questions silly and not reflective of job-related skills. Candidates could be asked about their favorite snack, hobby, or even their spirit animal. These types of questions do little to evaluate a candidate's abilities and can be viewed as a waste of time for both the candidate and the interviewer.

Recent Trends in Interview Practices

In recent years, there has been a push for more thoughtful and relevant interview practices. Many companies are now using structured interviews that focus on behavioral questions and skills assessments. This shift aims to create a fairer and more effective hiring process, ensuring that candidates are evaluated based on their actual abilities and experiences, rather than unconnected or inappropriate queries.

A Personal Experience in the Job Search

While it may sound surprising, I recently began my remote job search in my 60s, after spending over 28 years with the same company, ultimately rising to VP of Western Regional Sales and Marketing Manager. I had no need to look for a job for a long time, but when I did, the process felt even more challenging. Even seasoned professionals can face disconcerting interview experiences. Here are a few examples:

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

This question, while seemingly straightforward, can be tricky. Candidates often feel pressured to give a hopeful and realistic response, which might not align with the interviewer's expectations.

Q: Why should we hire you?

Another common question is a straightforward comparison. Candidates must demonstrate why they are uniquely suited to the position without coming across as overly confident or complacent.

Q: Why do you want to work here?

This question can sometimes feel like a setup, especially if it seems the job is not quite right for the candidate. It's important for the candidate to articulate their genuine interest while also considering the company's values and mission.

Q: What is your favorite snack?

One instance of an excessive or odd question occurred during an interview. I was prepared and ready, with a remote office and appropriate attire. Then, the interviewer appeared on Zoom, wearing a Marilyn Manson hoodie with their feet up on the desk. Throwing the interview off-balance, the interviewee disconnected us, citing the issue as being overqualified. The connection seemed odd even at today's standards, making the experience frustrating and unprofessional.

The job search can be a daunting process, especially when faced with unfair or irrational questions. It's important for candidates to stay focused and prepared, while also advocating for a more constructive and fair interview process. As more companies adopt structured interviews and focus on behavioral and skills-based assessments, the future of job interviews may become less perplexing and more focused on substance.