Wobbly Chair Test: Unusual Method Employed By Interviewers

Selecting the right candidate for a job involves more than just reviewing resumes and conducting standard interviews. Employers often sift through numerous applications, each showcasing a unique set of skills and diverse experiences. As a result, the overall selection process can be quite demanding and requires meticulous evaluation. To streamline this process and swiftly identify the most suitable candidate, interviewers have developed various creative techniques over time. These methods help employers assess applicants beyond their resumes and interview responses.

One intriguing technique is known as the wobbly chair test. This assessment involves providing the candidate with a chair that has one leg shorter than the others, causing it to wobble. The purpose of this test is to observe how the applicant reacts to this minor inconvenience and whether they demonstrate assertiveness by requesting a different chair during the interview. The wobbly chair test aims not only to create a moment of discomfort but also to gauge how the candidate handles unexpected and slightly stressful situations. Interviewers pay close attention to whether the interviewee tolerates the discomfort throughout the interview or proactively addresses the issue.

According to a report by Ladbible, this test is specifically used to evaluate the applicant’s confidence and ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. One individual shared an example of this method, recounting how his brother, while interviewing for the ROTC Nuclear Power School, was given the choice between a wobbly chair placed in front of the interviewer’s desk and a stable chair positioned against the wall. The deliberate placement of the wobbly chair was intended to assess whether the candidate would assertively request a more stable seating option during the interview.

This technique highlights the importance of not only technical qualifications but also interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities in the hiring process. It underscores how employers seek candidates who can navigate challenges with confidence and professionalism.