Mastering Tricky Interview Questions: Turning Curveballs Into Conversation Starters
Written by Massa Medi
Picture this: you’re seated in a job interview, and instead of being asked about your resume, the interviewer leans forward and poses a question straight out of left field, “How many coins would fit into this room?”
You might blurt out, “4,000?” Maybe shoot higher, “10,000? 11? Ten million?”—all in quick succession. But here’s the truth: not every question comes with a precise answer. These curveballs aren’t about getting it “right,” but about showing how you think through a challenge.
Show Your Thought Process
When faced with such an open-ended question, the key is to think logically and, most importantly, to think out loud. Rather than freezing or guessing wildly, break down the problem. For example:
“Well, I’d have to estimate how many coins would fit lengthwise, widthwise, and heightwise along the room. Then I’d multiply those three numbers together to get a rough estimate of the total number of coins that could fill the space.”
By verbalizing each step, you reveal your analytical process—a quality your interviewer is much more interested in than the final number you throw out.
The Importance of Follow-Up Questions
Sometimes, the interviewer might ask, “What’s the color of money?” Most would say, “Green.” But before rushing your answer, pause for a moment. The follow-up questions often matter even more than the initial response. Ask yourself:
- “Which currency are we talking about?”
- “Are we referring to cash, or could it be a card or cryptocurrency?”
Money isn't always “green.” It depends on the country, and in some cases, the medium of payment—you can't exactly call Bitcoin “green!” Demonstrating this awareness shows flexibility in your thinking and an understanding of real-world complexity.
Questions That Test Your Character
Now, imagine your interviewer throws yet another curveball: “Suppose you've been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What do you do?”
This isn’t about finding the “right” answer. In fact, responding with “I don’t know,” is understandable. But here’s the tip: some questions are meant to gauge your character, creativity, and ethics. Avoid illegal or unethical answers. Instead, show your sense of fun, problem-solving, and integrity.
For instance: “I’d call it Max and maybe ride it to work.”
Answering playfully—without breaking any ethical rules—shows you can embrace imaginative problems and still think responsibly.
Turning the Tables in Your Favor
The next time you’re put on the spot, remember: tricky questions aren’t always about knowledge—they’re about how you approach uncertainty, how you communicate, and whether you can remain thoughtful under pressure. Stay calm, have fun, and show your interviewer not just how you answer, but how you think.