Some questions are asked in an interview in order to get you to think on your feet and to see how you respond when thrown a curveball. One of these questions might be: "If you were an animal, which one would you want to be?"
This question is meant to learn more about your thought process. It is also good to see if you are creative.
The important thing to keep in mind with this question is to relate the positive qualities of the animal you choose to positive qualities that need to be seen within an exceptional employee. You want to use this question to reveal something about your personality and character.
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Points to Emphasize
This question is meant to be fun and break up the monotony of job interviews, so keep the following points in consideration.
- Respond with an animal with a good reputation (examples: dog, dolphin or horse).
- Mention a quality of that animal with a quality you possess.
- Keep your answer brief.
- Make sure you mention an animal with traits that would be desirable in the role you are applying for.
Dogs are known for their friendliness and loyalty, so they are an excellent and safe choice. Monkeys, elephants and ants also possess traits that could be seen as useful in a cooperative work environment, so consider those animals too.
Mistakes You Should Avoid
A simple question like this warrants a simple response, so don't get bogged down in these common traps.
- Don't say an animal with a negative connotation.
- Avoid saying you do not want to be any animal.
- Don't act like this question is beneath you.
- Don't spend too long thinking about it.
Although it might be cool to be a snake, you should probably avoid mentioning that since snakes are associated with poison and treachery. Spiders and rats should also be avoided at all costs.
Sample Answer
Responding to a silly animal question like this should go along the lines of:
If I could be any animal, it would be a dog. I always offer support to anyone who needs it, and I'm fiercely loyal.
You do not have to go into a lengthy explanation about why your particular animal is the perfect representation of you. You just need to give a simple answer that is short, sweet and to the point. Although every question of a job interview needs to be taken seriously to an extent, feel free to relax and show off your light-hearted side. You can even ask the interviewer what animal he or she would want to be when you are finished.
