Navigating Unfair Interview Questions: A Personal Experience

During my interview for the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad PGPX program, I encountered a scenario that left me both bewildered and reflective. The process involved drawing a chit from a bowl to determine the topic on which I would deliver an extempore speech, a well-established component of the interview process. However, the twist was that each chit had a topic assigned to it, and the twist was that the topics were decidedly atypical.

Unusual Topics and Their Impact

One of the first chits I drew pertained to maternity leave policies. This topic, while critical for organizations, did not seem particularly aligned with the broader scope of the interview questions. It was a rather unexpected and somewhat unrelated topic, particularly considering the potential impact it could have on a candidate's preparedness. The concern here was that an entire 2/3rds of the interview time might be consumed by an unexpected and unfamiliar topic, potentially derailing even the most qualified candidate's performance.

Quick Conversion and Reassurance

Fortunately, I was given a second chance to draw another chit, which landed me on a slightly better yet still somewhat unusual topic. This shift in topic provided a glimmer of relief, but it highlighted the potential inconsistencies and biases in the interview process. The extempore discussion, which typically covers a significant portion of the interview, can be derailed by such unforeseen topics, making the candidate's performance on the more relevant parts of the interview more challenging.

Reflections on Fairness and Assessment

Reflecting on this experience, I realize that the fairness of the interview process is crucial for ensuring that candidates are judged on their qualifications and relevant skills. An extempore topic has the potential to test a candidate's ability to handle unexpected situations, but it should not nullify the value of a perfectly qualified candidate because of an assigned topic that may not align well with their strengths or the purpose of the interview.

Strategies for Handling Unfair Interview Questions

Given the potential for unfair questions, it is essential for interviewees to adopt several strategies to mitigate the risk of being derailed:

Negotiate the Question: If the topic seems far removed or strange, it may be worth attempting to negotiate with the interviewer. Ask for clarity on how it relates to the program and your application. This can help you better prepare for the discussion and show your adaptability. Prepare Broadly: Instead of focusing solely on the specific topics, prepare a wide range of relevant skills and knowledge that might be useful. This can help you handle any unexpected questions more effectively. Practice Mindfulness: On the day of the interview, maintain mindfulness and a positive mindset. Respond with confidence and focus on the key points that are relevant to your application and the program.

Ultimately, the goal of an interview is to assess the candidate's fit with the program, their skills, and their potential for success. Unfair questions can disrupt this assessment, but with the right strategies, candidates can navigate these challenges effectively.