Job interviews can be an anxious experience, with candidates facing tough questions to assess their suitability for a role. However, Harit Nagpal, MD and CEO of Tata Play Ltd, recently sparked debate with a unique approach to evaluating prospective employees.
Taking to LinkedIn, Nagpal revealed that he begins every interview with a simple yet revealing question: "Did you have any trouble getting here?"
He explained that candidates who listed problems, such as traffic jams, potholes, or bad weather, were immediately at a disadvantage. On the other hand, those who responded with an anecdote or a light-hearted perspective stood a better chance of being hired.
"The ones who listed potholes, traffic jams, rain, etc., lost me at the beginning itself. The ones who laughed away at these factors and narrated an interesting incident became my colleagues," he wrote.
Nagpal elaborated that factors beyond control—such as competition, economic conditions, regulations, and the weather—should not consume an individual. Instead, he suggested that the ability to adapt and maintain a positive outlook was a crucial trait in a professional setting.
"You can allow them to consume you or take them in your stride and find the way forward. Smiling often helps," he added.
Nagpal’s post quickly went viral, drawing a mixed reaction from users. While some supported his perspective, others criticised the approach as unfair and simplistic.
One LinkedIn user wrote, "I hold great respect for you, but your views on this matter are completely off the mark. It makes me wonder how many high-impact talents you may have ignored with such an approach. This feels like a very immature way of analysing things."
Another argued that while a positive attitude is valuable, external challenges should not be dismissed outright.
"While it’s important to maintain a positive attitude in the face of challenges, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the impact external factors can have on our journey," the comment read.
Some, however, defended Nagpal’s stance, calling it an effective way to assess a candidate’s mindset.
"This is a smart way to form an opinion about someone, especially if we need to work with them," wrote one user.
Another added, "Certain frogs want to stay in the well and be happy. Certain frogs want to jump out of the well and explore. Difference between a broad mindset and a narrow mindset."
Meanwhile, some questioned the authenticity of the hiring approach, with one user remarking, "I’m sure this is just a cool LinkedIn post and not the reality."
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