Glassdoor: Quirky, oddball interview questions from employers that actually makes sense!

As the global slowdown takes center stage once again, layoffs and hiring freezes have become a hot topic, especially in the realms of both startups and large tech firms. In light of these circumstances, let's delve into some valuable insights regarding the pivotal questions posed during interviews.

Some very strange interview questions, while not yet common in India's job market, offer a unique way for employers to assess candidates. These questions can provide valuable insights into a candidate's creativity, problem-solving skills, and compatibility with the company culture. Here are some of these questions and the potential insights they can reveal.

"Just entertain me for five minutes, I'm not going to talk."

This question can assess a candidate's ability to think on their feet, improvise, and engage in conversation.

"When a hot dog expands, in which direction does it split and why?"

This question tests a candidate's logical thinking and ability to apply basic physics concepts to everyday situations.

"You're in a rowboat, which is in a large tank filled with water. You have an anchor on board, which you throw overboard. Does the water level in the tank rise or fall?"

This question evaluates a candidate's understanding of fluid dynamics and their ability to reason through abstract scenarios.

"Rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 how weird you are."

This question is meant to gauge a candidate's self-awareness and sense of humor. It can also provide insights into their personality.

"What do you think of garden gnomes?"

This question can reveal a candidate's ability to express personal opinions and fit into the company's culture if garden gnomes have some significance in that context.

"What songs best describe your work ethic?"

This question offers a creative way to understand a candidate's work ethic and their ability to relate their qualities to music.

"Would you rather fight 1 horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses?"

This hypothetical question assesses a candidate's decision-making skills, problem-solving abilities, and ability to think through unusual scenarios.

"What was your best MacGyver moment?"

This question encourages candidates to share real-life problem-solving experiences, demonstrating their resourcefulness and adaptability.

"How do you feel about those jokers in Congress?"

This question can gauge a candidate's ability to express opinions about current events, political awareness, and their communication skills.

"What is 37 times 37?"

This tests a candidate's mathematical skills, quick thinking, and problem-solving abilities under pressure.

"If you were a brand, what would be your motto?"

This question allows candidates to define their personal brand and values, showing their self-awareness and alignment with the organization's culture.

"How would you sell me eggnog in Florida in the summer?"

This question assesses a candidate's creativity, persuasion skills, and ability to handle a challenging sales scenario.

Word of caution: Interviewers must handle these questions with care, taking into account the unique attributes they intend to unveil and their relevance to the job position and company vibe. These queries should be integrated into a larger interview game plan to grasp a full picture of the candidate's capabilities and their potential alignment with the company's groove.