Bank to candidate: We'll change your name if you get the job
Here's our final list of real-life "killer interviewer questions" submitted by eFinancialCareers readers in Asia Pacific.
Killer interview question 1: What's the English version of your name?
The position
Risk officer.
Background
I have a Spanish name (Pablo) and close to the end of the interview I was asked what the English equivalent is.
How did the candidate respond?
I said, well, it would be Paul. Ok, the interviewer said, if you get the job we'll call you Paul. I made a face (I was caught by surprise) and I replied that I would stick to my original name, emphasising how popular my Spanish name is by referring to the famous painter.
Did the candidate get the job?
In the end I did not get the job. But I want to share with other people that you need to be prepared for absolutely everything in an interview, even being re-named! Advice: be prepared with two or three famous people with your name in case they want to change it.
Killer interview question 2: Do you have any skeletons in the closet?
The position
Junior-level job at an insurance broker.
How did the candidate respond?
Yes, but nothing which I think is relevant to talk about right now. It involved handcuffs, I was 16, and I learnt my lesson.
Did the candidate get the job?
No.
Killer interview question 3: What's the biggest misconception your colleagues have about you?
The position
Financial analyst.
How did the candidate respond
I was stunned for a couple of seconds because I had not encountered such a question before. I had to be clear what exactly a misconception is, and yet not put myself in a disadvantageous position.
I replied: "They probably thought I was a quiet person because of my looks, and had reservations about my performance in this industry."
Did the candidate get the job?
No.
Killer interview question 4: What hobbies do you have?
The position
Finance lawyer.
How did the candidate respond?
The 24-year-old law graduate who I interviewed said: "I collect Xena: Warrior Princess dolls".
Did the candidate get the job?
If he were joking he would have. Alas, he was not joking.
How would you have responded to the above questions? Let us know below.
