CEO Shares Favourite Interview Question for Job Candidates; Sparks Debate
In a surprising reveal, Tata Play CEO Harit Nagpal has shared his go-to interview question for job candidates, sparking a heated debate on social media. The question, “Did you have any trouble getting here?” may seem innocuous at first, but Nagpal’s explanation has left many scratching their heads.
According to Nagpal, he asks this question to gauge the candidate’s maturity level and ability to think on their feet. He believes that those who respond with trivial issues like potholes, traffic jams, or rain are indicating an immature approach to problems. “Very immature way of analysing things,” he said in a recent interview.
The reaction to Nagpal’s revelation has been mixed, with some agreeing with his assessment, while others are questioning the effectiveness of this question in evaluating a candidate’s skills. “Best employees will usually be the ones not good at interviews,” said one commentator on social media, highlighting the potential flaws in the traditional interview process.
The question itself is quite straightforward, but the way candidates respond can reveal a lot about their thought process and attitude towards challenges. Those who mention minor obstacles like traffic or parking issues may be perceived as lacking focus or prioritizing trivialities. On the other hand, candidates who respond with a more philosophical or solution-oriented approach might be seen as more mature and adaptable.
So, what does this question really test, and is it a fair assessment of a candidate’s abilities? Let’s break it down:
- Problem-solving skills: By asking about trouble getting to the interview, Nagpal is testing the candidate’s ability to think critically and come up with creative solutions. Candidates who mention minor issues may not be demonstrating this skill.
- Maturity level: As Nagpal pointed out, some candidates may view the question as an opportunity to complain about their journey, indicating a lack of maturity. This aspect is more subjective and may not be a reliable indicator of a candidate’s potential.
- Adaptability: The question also assesses the candidate’s ability to adapt to unexpected situations. Those who respond with a more positive or solution-oriented approach might be demonstrating this quality.
However, some argue that this question is not an effective way to evaluate a candidate’s skills. For instance, a candidate who has faced significant challenges getting to the interview, such as a long commute or bad weather, may not be able to articulate their concerns in a way that impresses the interviewer. This could lead to an unfair disadvantage for candidates who have already had to overcome more significant obstacles.
Moreover, the question itself is quite narrow and may not be representative of the candidate’s overall abilities or potential. A candidate who is excellent in their field but has a minor issue with traffic might still be a great fit for the role. On the other hand, a candidate who is well-versed in the company’s products and services but has a more creative approach to problem-solving might still struggle with this question.
In conclusion, while Nagpal’s question may be a thought-provoking way to gauge a candidate’s maturity level and problem-solving skills, it is not a foolproof method for evaluating a candidate’s abilities. The debate surrounding this question highlights the importance of considering multiple factors when assessing a candidate’s potential, including their skills, experience, and attitude towards challenges.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern job market, it is essential to recognize that every candidate is unique, with their own strengths and weaknesses. By considering a range of perspectives and approaches, we can create a more inclusive and effective hiring process that truly reflects the diversity of our workforce.
