How A Simple Sandwich Test In Interviews Stumps 70% Of Candidates

Job interviews are a part of life for most people. They’re often uncomfortable yet crucial, as they allow candidates to showcase their skills and experience.

But beyond the usual questions and formalities, there’s an element many candidates may not be aware of: employers sometimes use unconventional tests to observe behavior beyond what’s written on a resume.

While it might seem harmless, these hidden evaluations are designed to determine whether candidates possess qualities like attention to detail, hygiene, and self-awareness—essential traits for any work environment.

One such tactic that has gained attention is the "coffee cup test." It’s simple: the candidate is offered a drink, usually coffee or tea, during an interview.

Once the interview ends, the interviewer notes whether the candidate tries to return and wash the cup. Those who do tend to leave a positive impression, showing they’re considerate and proactive even in minor situations.

This seemingly minor detail provides insight into how potential employees might act in the workplace, particularly regarding responsibility and thoughtfulness.

Candidates on Reddit have shared similar hidden evaluations. In the popular R/AskReddit forum, one user asked, “Managers of Reddit, do you have special ‘tests’ for interviewees that you put them through without their knowing?”

This question generated many responses, including one from a former café manager whose test was simple and slightly unsettling. According to this manager, applicants were asked to prepare a basic cheese sandwich.

Surprisingly, most candidates failed because they neglected to wash their hands before handling the food. In this case, hygiene, a vital component of any food service job, became the test itself. Only about 30% of candidates passed, demonstrating the importance of cleanliness in an industry where it’s non-negotiable (Reddit user comment, 2024).

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking even under the most ideal circumstances.

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Some companies use different tricks to determine if a candidate has the right skills for a specific job. For example, people skills and social awareness are essential in sales, so the interview process might include a “test” for those qualities.

One Reddit user shared a story about a company that interviewed sales engineers and invited the candidates for an evening out with drinks afterward. The company wanted to see how candidates acted casually, especially when alcohol was involved.

The goal wasn’t to see how much they could drink but to observe if they would politely decline or show self-control. Since social interactions occur daily in sales, staying composed is valuable.

Malcolm Gladwell, a renowned author and speaker, highlights the role of intuition in decision-making processes. He argues that our gut feelings often stem from accumulated experiences, making them invaluable during high-pressure situations like interviews. Gladwell notes that candidates should trust their instincts while also being prepared for unexpected assessments.

This balance of intuition and preparation can enhance performance. It’s essential for candidates to practice mindfulness techniques to maintain calmness, allowing their intuitive skills to shine through in challenging interview scenarios.

Candidates were asked to assemble a sandwich.

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While these tests might feel like an invasion of privacy, they’re meant to show employers how candidates handle everyday situations. By using these unique tests, employers gain a better understanding of whether a candidate has the right mix of skills and maturity for the job.

Knowing that these hidden tests exist can be intimidating for candidates. They might worry about making mistakes over something they didn’t realize was part of the test.

The “coffee cup test” or an evening out with drinks could easily catch someone by surprise. However, instead of trying to predict every test, candidates should focus on qualities like self-awareness, respect, and courtesy to make a good impression—even if they aren’t aware of any hidden tests.

Only 30 percent of people interviewed washed their hands before making the sandwich.

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Understanding Behavioral Insights

Psychologist Dr. Ramani Durvasula emphasizes the importance of behavioral evaluations during interviews, stating that unconventional tests reveal more than resumes can. These tests often expose candidates' adaptability and problem-solving skills under stress, traits that traditional questions might miss.

Many employers utilize these methods to gauge how candidates think on their feet. According to Dr. Durvasula, being aware of this can help candidates prepare by practicing situational responses. She suggests role-playing various scenarios with friends or mentors to build confidence and improve real-time decision-making skills.

People have different opinions on whether these hidden tests are fair. Some believe they’re misleading and unnecessary since they don’t always relate directly to job skills.

For example, a person’s ability to return a coffee cup or behave well at a casual gathering might not reflect their professional skills. However, others argue that these tests reveal important traits that standard interview questions miss.

Knowing that these hidden tests exist can be helpful. Although you can’t predict every test, staying professional and aware in any setting can leave a strong impression.

Whether returning a coffee cup, making a sandwich, or keeping calm in casual situations, showing thoughtfulness in every part of the interview can make a big difference. After all, small gestures can say a lot about a person’s character, especially when first impressions matter.

In conclusion, understanding the dynamics of unconventional interview techniques can significantly enhance a candidate's performance. Experts like Dr. Ramani Durvasula and Malcolm Gladwell provide insights into how behavioral evaluations and intuition play crucial roles in the hiring process. By preparing for unexpected challenges and honing decision-making abilities, candidates can transform anxiety into confidence.

Ultimately, embracing these strategies can lead to a more authentic and compelling representation of one's skills. As job markets evolve, so too should our approaches to interviews, ensuring we remain adaptable and prepared for any situation.