Are You Smarter Than a CEO’s Six-Year-Old? The Interview Brain Teaser Driving Candidates Crazy

Job interviews often involve more than just a discussion of qualifications—they are primarily a test of quick thinking, problem-solving, and handling unexpected challenges. That said, brain teasers have become a popular tool for interviewers to gauge these qualities, adding an extra layer of pressure to an already intense experience.

One CEO, Dino Dionne of Genesis Capital Group, has taken things up a notch by using a brain teaser in interviews and demanding candidates answer it within three seconds. The question, shared on Reddit, sparked a social media storm as people weighed in on the challenge, debating the “correct” answer.

For interviewees, these types of questions can be incredibly stressful, especially under a tight time constraint. The brain teaser trend isn’t just about testing math skills; it’s about measuring composure, problem-solving speed, and perhaps a candidate’s willingness to engage with difficult tasks under pressure.

The brain teaser is a simple equation: "3x3 - 3 ÷ 3 + 3." Though it seems straightforward, candidates have given wildly different answers, ranging from 1 to 11, with some expressing frustration at the CEO’s approach to hiring.

This exercise raises the question: is it really an indicator of job performance, or just a way to add unnecessary stress?

The Unexpected Brain Teaser

Dino Dionne’s brain teaser has created waves online after he revealed that he asks every interviewee to solve "3x3 - 3 ÷ 3 + 3" in just three seconds. Dionne even claims his six-year-old solved it in 30 seconds, adding pressure to interviewees.

He posted, “I give this test to everyone I interview. If you want the job, you have three seconds to give the correct answer.” Dionne shared that he’s heard many “ridiculous excuses” from those who struggle with the equation, suggesting that the right answer reveals something important about a candidate’s quick thinking.

LinkedIn/Dino Dionne

The Debate Over the Right Answer

Naturally, this “simple” equation stirred a whirlwind of debate. Many insisted the answer is 11, using the PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction) rule, which specifies multiplication and division before addition and subtraction.

They break it down as follows: 3x3=9, 3÷3=1, resulting in 9 - 1 + 3, equaling 11. Others, reading the equation left to right without regard for the order of operations, arrived at different numbers like 5.

LinkedIn/Dino Dionne

Social Media Reactions

Many Reddit users reacted to Dionne’s hiring tactic, calling it unnecessary. One Redditor commented, “The correct answer is to end the interview and find a boss that isn’t a tool.” Others remarked on the “my six-year-old solved it” comment, with one saying, “This is why we need parentheses in math.”

Ultimately, the brain teaser may reveal more about Dionne’s interview style than a candidate’s abilities, leaving people questioning whether it’s the best way to assess potential employees.

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Dr. Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist known for her research on body language, emphasizes that how candidates present themselves during interviews can significantly impact their perceived competence. According to Cuddy, nonverbal cues like posture and eye contact can either enhance or undermine a candidate's confidence and credibility in high-pressure situations.

She suggests that practicing power poses before an interview can help candidates feel more empowered and reduce anxiety. This technique can be particularly effective in brain teaser scenarios, where quick thinking is essential.

The Value of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a crucial role in how individuals respond to unexpected challenges during interviews. Dr. Daniel Goleman, a psychologist and author of 'Emotional Intelligence,' highlights that candidates who possess strong EI can navigate stressful situations more adeptly.

He suggests that developing self-awareness and self-regulation can help candidates think clearly and respond effectively to brain teasers. Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as focused breathing or visualization, can improve one's ability to remain composed under pressure.

So, what’s the takeaway from this mind-bending interview trick? Maybe it’s a reminder that sometimes the biggest test in an interview isn’t the question itself but staying calm when things get weird.

Dionne’s quirky brain teaser might spark frustration, but it also forces candidates to embrace the unexpected. Whether or not there’s a “right” answer to 3x3 - 3 ÷ 3 + 3, navigating the quirky challenges of job interviews just might be the best preparation for handling life’s curveballs.

Just remember: in the world of interviews, survival often comes down to a cool head and a little math.

Moving Forward: Actionable Steps

Incorporating expert insights into interview preparation can transform how candidates approach brain teasers and unexpected challenges. As Dr. Goleman notes, enhancing emotional intelligence can create a significant advantage in high-stakes situations. Implementing strategies like power posing or mindfulness can help candidates build confidence and reduce anxiety.

By understanding the importance of both nonverbal cues and emotional regulation, candidates can improve their overall performance in interviews. These practices not only prepare them for brain teasers but also foster a more resilient mindset in their professional lives.