If You Were a Salad Dressing, What Would You Be?

By: Janna Parke

“If you were a salad dressing, what would you be and why?”

Well… I haven’t actually thought about this topic in a while, or ever. It is questions like these that really could throw you for a loop in an interview. How did I answer?

French. I would be French dressing, because it can be easily paired with a variety of toppings, such as craziness, croutons, carrots, cheese, or seeds. This relates to me, because I get along with a variety of types of people in the workplace and we work together to make the best possible outcome (aka salad).

Interview questions that seem “out there” are used to analyze how well the applicant can think on their toes, creativity, what techniques that are used to think, if they are open to new questions, and if the applicant is able to understand that there is no right answer.

It is important not to rush your answer. Taking time to think about the question and why they might be asking it is just as important as the answer itself. How does this question relate to my life and my role in the company?

Below are some examples of questions from The Guardian Careers, and how to answer them effectively:

How many people are using Facebook in New York on Friday at 2:30pm?

This question must have a factual answer, but the journey to working that out is complex. Think what it might mean to you in your role. If it's a digital marketing role, they may be testing your awareness of key audiences and how and when they use social networks. Alternatively, they could simply be trying to get an understanding of how important you think social networks are in working life. Think about all the factors that could influence the answer and talk them through step-by-step.

What do you think about garden gnomes?

Not all questions are serious. You might be asked a question like this to show your sense of humor in an otherwise formal situation. It's still worth thinking about the question though and how it might relate to your role. For example, you could say that you admire their reliability as they often stay rooted to the same spot. If you were going for an engineering or construction role you could question whether they have the right tools for the job and so on. 

Now try to answer these questions with a logical response:

1.     If you had to get rid of one state in the US, what would it be and why

2.      How would you explain making an omelet to a child?

3.     Who do you like best, your mom or your dad?

4. How many times in one day do a clock’s hands overlap?

5.     Why are infographics so popular?

6.     If you were part of a bicycle, what part would you be and why?

7.   If you were given a free full-page ad in the newspaper and had to sell yourself in six words or less, how would the ad read?

Google "strange interview questions" and see what other questions people have thrown out there. I have only been asked a few crazy interview questions, but I have been prepared to answer, which makes a difference. Show the employer that you are able to handle a stressful situation with a strong response. Be memorable. 

Interview questions were found on this website:
http://careers.theguardian.com/weird-interview-questions