(essay)

“If at first the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it.”

Albert Einstein

Imagine walking into your dream job interview and suddenly being asked, “How many golf balls will fit on a school bus?” or “How would you describe the color yellow to someone born blind?” It seems that it is completely meaningless, but in fact such questions have a deep meaning.

Why do employers ask absurd things?

Creativity check. Some positions require out-of-the-box thinking, and the employer wants to see how quickly you can come up with an original solution.

Assessment of stress response. An unexpected question helps you to understand how you behave in unexpected situations. If the candidate is lost or panicking, this may indicate low stress tolerance.

Analysis of logical thinking. It is important not to give an exact answer, but to show the flow of thoughts. For example, in a question about golf balls, you can calculate the approximate volume of the bus and the ball and then make an educated guess.

Identification of personal qualities. Questions like “How would you explain to an alien what the Internet is?” help assess the ability to communicate simply and clearly.

How to react?

The main thing is not to panic. Even if the question seems silly, try to think logically or illogically, show calmness and creativity. Humor won`t be extra. Sometimes seeing your reaction is more important to an employer than hearing the “right” answer.

So, absurd questions are not a test of knowledge, but an opportunity to show your intelligence and readiness for challenges.