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AIBU?

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Original poster

To ask help with this job application question?

31 replies

gluedlip · 30/08/2024 09:50

Filling out an online application and this question is.. if you were an animal, what animal would you be? And why?
Is there some psychology behind a question like this?
What are they asking exactly?
I'm actually quite happy being human but if there's a psychology behind it that lands me the job then happy to put down the 'right' answer.

OP posts:
RareCheese · 30/08/2024 10:18

Love51 · 30/08/2024 10:13

I'd read that question as a sign to stay away from that job. It isn't an appropriate question for recruitment.

This. Unless you’re auditioning for a children’s tv presenter job or something.

Love51 · 30/08/2024 10:13

I'd read that question as a sign to stay away from that job. It isn't an appropriate question for recruitment.

SoupDragon · 30/08/2024 10:12

My honest answer would be "cat" because they get to sleep in the sun all day. I suspect this is not the answer they are looking for though!

I suspect there is a balance to be had between honest and looking like your sucking up to them.

A meerkat might be good. They're team players and always on the look out aren't they? Plus they'll find you a good deal on your insurance.

SlothOnARope · 30/08/2024 10:11

Yes I'd stay away from donkey, rat and cockroach.

Elephant 🐘 Loyal, teamworker, large brain and good memory.

OpizpuHeuvHiyo · 30/08/2024 10:09

Depends on the job. Did the job advert come with a person-description? Some jobs would want a magpie - sharp eyes for something bright and shining, diving for it because it's attractive. Some jobs would want a matriarch elephant, preserving the herd's historical knowledge and leading them along well-remembered paths to new water-holes. Some would want a squirrel, putting lots of energy into preparing for the coming winter, finding resources to store away.

There's no "right" answer, they are looking for evidence of you understanding the role they are recruiting for and also you being able to articulate why you will fill it well.

IReallyCouldntThinkOfAUsername · 30/08/2024 09:59

It's to see how you assess your character and how you'd fit on the team. Eg putting a lion suggests you're strong, will stand up for your team etc. Putting a snake I'd struggle to see the good points and it feels like someone who would lie to get what they want. I dont think there's a right and wrong answer, but putting something that has positive strong characters that explains how you are in your role.