Unique Interview Questions to Ask Applicants

When it comes to interviewing candidates, traditional questions often fall short of revealing the true potential and personality of applicants. Instead of relying on standard queries about strengths and weaknesses, consider innovative questions that can uncover deeper insights. This article explores a range of unique interview questions designed to provoke thoughtful responses, encourage creativity, and assess cultural fit. Each question not only challenges the candidate to think critically but also offers you a glimpse into their problem-solving abilities, values, and motivations. Let's dive into these unconventional questions that can transform your interviewing process from mundane to memorable.

1:What fictional character do you relate to the most, and why?
This question invites candidates to explore their personality through storytelling. The response can reveal their values, aspirations, and how they perceive challenges. For instance, a candidate who identifies with a character known for resilience might demonstrate a strong problem-solving mindset.

2:If you were an animal, which one would you be and why?
This light-hearted question can lead to surprisingly insightful answers. A candidate’s choice of animal may reflect their personality traits—an eagle for vision and leadership, a dolphin for teamwork and playfulness, or an owl for wisdom and strategy.

3:Describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to a change. What did you learn from that experience?
Adaptability is a critical skill in today’s fast-paced work environment. This question not only assesses how candidates handle change but also evaluates their ability to learn and grow from experiences. Look for candidates who can articulate lessons learned and demonstrate a proactive approach.

4:If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be and what would you discuss?
This question provides insight into the candidate’s interests, values, and intellectual curiosity. Their choices can indicate who they admire and the topics they are passionate about, revealing their potential fit within your company culture.

5:What is your most unusual skill, and how has it helped you in your career?
Unique skills can set candidates apart. This question encourages candidates to think creatively about their experiences and can lead to unexpected revelations. For instance, someone with a background in improv might showcase their ability to think on their feet and collaborate effectively.

6:If you were given a budget of $1 million to start a charity, what would it be for and why?
Understanding a candidate’s motivations can help determine their alignment with your organization’s mission. Their charity choice can reveal their values and what they deem important, such as education, health care, or environmental issues.

7:What is a book that has significantly influenced your life?
This question delves into a candidate’s intellectual interests and values. A well-thought-out response can highlight their commitment to personal growth and their ability to reflect on life experiences.

8:If you could instantly gain one skill or talent, what would it be?
This question can reveal candidates' aspirations and how they perceive their current abilities. Look for responses that show a desire for growth, whether it’s in leadership, technical skills, or creative pursuits.

9:What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Candidates' choices of advice can reveal their decision-making processes and values. Look for insights that reflect their approach to challenges and their willingness to learn from others.

10:Describe a project you’ve worked on that you’re particularly proud of. What made it special?
This question invites candidates to share their achievements and what they value in their work. Listen for stories that demonstrate passion, creativity, and teamwork.

11:How do you approach failure? Can you share a specific example?
Resilience in the face of failure is a crucial trait. Candidates who can discuss failure candidly demonstrate self-awareness and the ability to learn from setbacks.

12:What do you think is the most important quality for someone in this role?
This question can gauge candidates’ understanding of the position and their ability to reflect on what makes a successful employee. Their answer will show how well they understand the role's demands and their potential fit.

13:If you could change one thing about your previous job, what would it be?
This question can provide insight into what candidates value in a workplace and how they handle dissatisfaction. It also opens up a dialogue about company culture and improvements.

14:What motivates you to perform at your best?
Understanding what drives candidates can help you determine how to motivate them within your organization. Look for answers that align with the incentives and culture of your workplace.

15:Imagine you have an entire year off with unlimited resources. What would you do?
This imaginative question can reveal a lot about a candidate’s passions and priorities. Their response can shed light on what they value most, whether it’s travel, learning, or personal projects.

Incorporating these unique questions into your interview process can lead to richer conversations and more insightful evaluations of candidates. Instead of simply checking off boxes, you’ll be engaging in a dialogue that reveals the true essence of each applicant. This approach not only makes the interview more enjoyable for both parties but also enhances your ability to identify candidates who align well with your organization's culture and goals.