10 Unique and Fun Informal Interview Questions to Ask Candidates

10 Unique and Fun Informal Interview Questions to Ask Candidates

As an employer or a hiring manager, there is nothing worse than interviewing candidates who are obviously reading out answers they have rehearsed. The whole process seems dull and repetitive, and it can be tough to get to know the real person behind the resume.

To make interviews more engaging and fun, many hiring managers are now asking informal questions that prompt candidates to think outside the box. By asking non-traditional questions, you can encourage candidates to show who they are, what they stand for and to reveal what they may bring to the job. Here are ten unique and fun informal interview questions to ask candidates:

1. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

This question is a great way to understand what values and qualities drive a candidate. Depending on their answer, you may get insights into whether they value power, strength, wisdom or the ability to change the world around them.

2. Can you tell me about a project you worked on that you’re really proud of?

This question gives the candidate the opportunity to share their proudest moment in their career, school year or volunteering work. Look for the passion and enthusiasm they show when they talk about their project, it will give you an idea of how they may approach projects in your organization.

3. If you were a type of food, what would you be?

Food and personality often go together. This question tests the candidate’s ability to think creatively and reflect on who they are as a person.

4. Can you describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer or co-worker?

This question allows the candidate to demonstrate their problem-solving and communication skills. It also helps you to evaluate how they approach conflicts and work to resolve them.

5. What is the last book you read, and what did you learn from it?

This question reveals a lot about a candidate’s personal interests and whether they care for self-development. It can also hint at their problem solving and creativity skills.

6. What would be your dream job?

This question creates a relaxed atmosphere for the candidate to share their aspirations and personality. You may get a glimpse of how they perceive themselves and how they think about their future.

7. What is the most significant challenge you have ever overcome in your life?

This question tests resilience and the candidate’s ability to persevere under difficult circumstances. It also shows how they cope with stress and pressure, crucial skills in any role.

8. If you could relive any moment in your life, what would it be and why?

This question gives the candidate room to express themselves and share a cherished memory or life experience. It can help you understand their interests and could lead to discovering hidden talents in the process.

9. What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet?

This question gives the candidate the opportunity to share their aspirations and opens the floor to creative thinking. Look for signs of passion and excitement when they talk about their answer.

10. What’s the best joke you’ve ever heard?

This question tests the candidate’s sense of humour and cultural awareness. It’s a great way to gauge whether the candidate would be a good cultural fit within the organization.

In conclusion, asking unconventional and informal questions during an interview can help spur creative thinking and lead you to discovering the true character of the candidate. The purpose of these questions isn’t to stump the candidate but to add personality and fun to the interview process. Use these questions to get to know the candidate beyond their resume, and you may be surprised by how much you can learn.

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