Unusual Interview Questions for Startup Jobs

Anything related to a startup is generally unusual.  I mean, if you’re in a big company, with a routine job, and have a “salary” that helps you run the rat race – you’re usual. But the fact that you’re associated with a startup, either as an entrepreneur or an employee, you’re unusual. This unusualness could also extend into your interview process in the form of tricky, odd and unusual questions, which gives you an edge in judging/evaluating a candidate’s suitability with your startup.

Why ask such tricky, odd and unusual questions? Well, as a startup you need to be very sure that you’re hiring someone who’s not an average guy/gal with an average thought process.
Note: Average is relative+subjective to your startup’s standards.

We’ve compiled a quick list of 5 unusual questions that could help you in spotting the right talent.

photo © 2008 Valerie Everett | more info (via: Wylio)1. Catch them off guard: Why are manhole covers round? How many months have 28 days? There are 10 cards and you take 7 away, how many cards are you left with?

This will help judge their presence of mind and how they react to an unusual situation.

2. Mr. Diplomat: What if you’re caught red-handed doing something wrong – how would you get out of the situation? What if I’m homosexual, will you still work with me?

This will help you analyse the risk taking capacity of the candidate, and how tactfully s/he can talk their way out, or how well can s/he take control of a situation.

3. All talk no C*ck: So you’re passionate about startups, eh – Who is that one person you have high regard for and why? You said you’re gung-ho about ecommerce industry in India, why? Why have companies like google, facebook, twitter, etc., succeeded in their ventures so far?

This will let you determine the set of ideologies the person has which will help you understand if the candidate can fit into the start-ups culture.

4. Brother from another mother: How to you de-stress yourself? What do you do in your free time? You said you like music, what type of music and why? Which is your favourite movie, why? Goa or Shimla, why?

This will help you relate to the person on a more personal level. It can also ease the candidate and give him a chance to be more candid about himself.

5. The Winner: What do you consider to be your most prominent achievement so far? If you’re rejected here, what next?

This will help you understand if the person believes in setting and achieving goals. If he is result driven or not.

These are just a few of more such potential creative ideas of interviewing for your startup jobs. If you have more ideas to share, please pour them in. We’re looking forward to hear from you!