How would you explain this to an 8 year old child?
Sometimes interviewers will throw in a question which is not directly about you but which will give them a clear picture of your understanding and ability to communicate for example.
Case study interviews are a classic example of this however more interviewers have started throwing an unusual question into the interview to see how you cope.
An example of this could be, “how would you explain this to an 8 year old child?” where “this” will be a product, service or complex system used by the company. Your answer will show the interviewer that you have a clear understanding of the company, its product/service, how it works etc. As with all interview questions, this one really requires you to do your homework into the company and the industry they are in.
However, here knowledge alone is not enough. You may be an extremely technical person and/or well versed in the industry but if you are unable to explain it in simple terms and your CV states that one of your strengths is your strong communication skills (as this was one of the requirements for the job) then you will immediately put doubt in the mind of the interviewer as to whether you are the person they are looking for.
The key here is to make your answer sound interesting and to practice your answer in both technical and laymen’s terms so if you are faced with this type of question, you can answer it confidently.
If you have an interview coming up and would like help preparing for it, please contact us .
Related articles:
Question 1 – What achievement in your life are you most proud of?
Question 2 – Why are you interested in this job?
Question 3 – What are the biggest strengths you would bring to this Job?
Question 4 – What are your weaknesses?
Question 5 – Have you ever had a boss who you found difficult to work with?
