How to Answer Hypothetical Interview Questions

We have all heard it before: the dreaded "hypothetical interview question." This kind of question is another part of an interviewer trying to throw you for a loop as they sift through a stack of applications, winnowing out people to arrive at their final choices. The hypothetical question doesn't have to be harder than any other questions you are asked during the interview. Here are a few strategies for answering.

Instructions

1. Start out with "I don't think this would happen, but..." Being frank about possibilities is part of accurately assessing your job environment and, ultimately, your job.

2. Answer the question. You can insert a disclaimer on a hypothetical, but you can't sidestep it entirely. As an interview applicant, you kind of owe your would-be employer at least some kind of answer. Trying to step around too many questions could get you in hot water.

3. Rely on your experience. If the question is about a scenario you've seen before, you know where to go with your answer. Highlight examples of your past successes in answers if possible, but don't inject them artificially.

4. Come up with creative answers to hypothetical questions. Sometimes, employers are trying to see how you would address a outrageous situation or handle a highly conceptual problem. While some people dread the hypothetical, others see it as a fun way to tackle the future.

5. Ask for clues. Asking a question back helps give you time to answer; it also shows the interviewer you're involved.

6. Make use of leading questions. A lot of time, you can hear from the phrasing of the question what the interviewer is getting at; use this to your advantage when possible.