In the world of job recruitment, traditional interview questions are being supplemented – or even replaced – by unconventional methods aimed at revealing deeper aspects of a candidate’s personality. One such method gaining attention online is the so-called “salt and pepper test”.
Shared by a former employee on an internet forum, the story describes how their former boss used a curious approach during interview lunches. The manager would observe whether the candidate added salt, pepper, or other condiments to their meal before tasting it. If they did, they were immediately eliminated from consideration. The reasoning? The boss believed that seasoning food without trying it first indicated a tendency to judge prematurely – a potential red flag for roles requiring adaptability and openness to new experiences.
This unorthodox technique sparked debate, with some internet users criticising it as unfair or irrelevant to job performance. The original poster even admitted they would likely fail such a test, as they habitually add pepper to their food.
Another example of subtle testing comes from Trent Innes, former managing director of Xero Australia. Speaking on a podcast, Innes revealed that during interviews, he would invite candidates to fetch a drink from the office kitchen. Afterwards, he would observe whether they returned their empty cup to the appropriate place. Those who did were seen as more conscientious and team-oriented, while those who didn’t were viewed as lacking attention to detail or initiative.
Innes argued that while technical skills can be taught, a person’s attitude towards small responsibilities often reveals more about their suitability for a team environment.
These stories highlight a broader trend in recruitment: the increasing scrutiny of seemingly minor behaviours. While some see value in these tests as indicators of character, others caution against making hiring decisions based on habits that could be influenced by nerves or cultural differences.
Ultimately, these examples serve as a reminder to job seekers that everything – from how you season your food to what you do with your cup – might be under observation. In the competitive world of employment, even the smallest actions can leave a lasting impression.
