during an interview they say "tell me something that would surpise me about you" What are they looking for?

Answer 1

This is just a little different than the often used "Tell me a little about yourself." It gives the employer a chance to find out about your personal life. I would take the time to mention something that might be impressive within the career field. They might be impressed if you put yourself though college with scholarships and a fulltime job, if you graduated from high school two years early, if you can speak three languages. Brag about yourself.

Answer 2

They are trying to find out if you would say something outrageous. If you would tell them something outrageous in an interview just think what you could do while working with them all the time.
Prepare a good helpful answer in advance to make you look even better.
Example - Give them something you did outstanding in another field of work (much different from your target job) that may surprise them. Was an All County Athlete at my high school in Baseball for 2 years, etc. etc.

Answer 3

during an interview, always turn the negative or confusing questions into a positive... for example if they ask you "what was your least favorite part about your last job" never say something bad... say something like, "i wan't challanged enough". as far as this question, tell them that you take your employment very seriously, and you will work very hard for a loyal company. or, tell them that you are a very loyal employee and you are looking for a job that has growth potential...that seems to always work. don't tell them something actually surprising, like you lost your virginity at age 9. ha ha...

Answer 4

The positive spin thing is a very good tactic. If you want to see examples of it, watch any politician answer unscripted questions. They try to NEVER fall into the questioner's trap.

As for why you were asked that question, I think it is to try to find out how you handle unexpected issues (problems), to see if you can think on your feet, and to see if you can rise to a challenge. Whether it's fair to ask a question like that would be a whole other topic.

Good luck finding that job!

Answer 5

I never heard that one. They are probably trying to get you to tell on yourself. So I will tell them something that is interest of the job that can help concrete you a position.