When the Employer Asked, “A Meeting Has 6 Leaders But Only 4 Chairs. What Would You Do?” A High-EQ Candidate's Answer Got Them Hired Instantly
In the workplace, encountering unexpected situations is inevitable. How one handles such emergencies often determines their competence. Emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a crucial role in navigating such moments, enabling individuals to respond smartly, adapt quickly, and resolve issues effectively.
Understanding this, companies often assess EQ during interviews using unique scenarios. A sharp response can leave a lasting impression and increase the likelihood of success.
This was evident in the case of Xiao Zhao, a recent graduate from China. She applied for an Executive Assistant position at a company in her field and was invited for an interview. Since it was a senior-level role, only three candidates were shortlisted for the final interview.
After the technical assessment, the interviewer presented an unexpected question:
"In a company meeting with 6 leaders but only 4 chairs, and you're responsible for the arrangements, how would you handle it?"
The three candidates were taken aback by the question. Each provided their answer:
-
Candidate 1 – A recent graduate, like Xiao Zhao, said:
"If faced with such a sudden situation, I would hide all the chairs and report an issue to postpone the meeting. This way, no leader would feel offended seeing others seated while they stood." -
Candidate 2 – An experienced professional, responded:
"I would immediately order two additional chairs and request express delivery to ensure all leaders have a seat. It’s unacceptable for any leader to be left standing." -
Xiao Zhao's Answer – Without hesitation, she confidently replied:
"If I were responsible for organizing the meeting, such a situation would never occur. As an Executive Assistant, failing at this basic task would mean I'm not suited for the role. In that case, I would resign immediately for not fulfilling my duties. My priority would always be to prevent such scenarios from happening in the first place."
Her response left the interviewers impressed. They appreciated her quick thinking, composure, and strong sense of responsibility, qualities essential for an Executive Assistant role.
Xiao Zhao was hired on the spot and was asked to start as soon as possible. Her ability to demonstrate professionalism and foresight stood out, proving that EQ is just as vital as technical skills in the workplace.