Can you provide some real examples of dumb interview questions asked by recruiters or HR personnel from top companies like Google and Facebook?

While these questions may seem unconventional or even "dumb" at first glance, they serve a purpose in evaluating a candidate's problem-solving abilities, creativity, and cultural fit within the company. It's essential for candidates to approach such questions with confidence, logic, and a willingness to engage in thoughtful discussion.

While it's rare for top companies like Google and Facebook to ask outright "dumb" questions in interviews, they may pose unconventional or challenging queries to assess a candidate's problem-solving skills, creativity, and cultural fit. Here are a few examples:

  1. Google: "How many golf balls can fit in a school bus?" This classic Google interview question assesses a candidate's ability to estimate and think critically under pressure. There's no right answer, but interviewers look for a structured approach and logical reasoning.

  2. Facebook: "How would you design a system to detect fake news on social media?" This question evaluates a candidate's technical expertise, analytical thinking, and understanding of complex systems. Candidates are expected to propose practical solutions and consider potential challenges.

  3. Google: "How many piano tuners are there in New York City?" Similar to the golf balls question, this inquiry tests a candidate's estimation skills and ability to break down a problem into manageable parts. Interviewers are interested in the candidate's thought process rather than an exact answer.

  4. Facebook: "If you were a pizza delivery man, how would you benefit from scissors?" This unconventional question assesses a candidate's creativity and ability to think outside the box. Candidates might discuss using scissors to cut pizza boxes efficiently or as a tool for various tasks during delivery.

  5. Google: "How many haircuts do you think happen in America every year?" This question challenges candidates to make informed assumptions and calculate estimates based on relevant data. Interviewers are interested in the candidate's reasoning process and ability to think critically.