Why Steve Jobs Put a Glass of Water in Job Interviews
In the high-stakes world of job interviews, where candidates often feel like they’re under a spotlight, some offbeat tricks can reveal more than the usual Q&A routine. One famous example, linked with Steve Jobs, the Apple co-founder, is known as the “water glass test.” This neat method gives interviewers a fresh way to size up potential hires by spotting personal traits that might slip by in a typical interview.
Where it all began and what it’s for
The water glass test is a pretty unique interview technique credited to Steve Jobs. During interviews, he’d offer a candidate a simple glass of water and just watch what they did. This gesture—often called the “prueba del vaso de agua”—goes beyond just quenching thirst. It’s meant to check out a candidate’s potential and personality beyond the resume or rehearsed answers.
The idea behind the test is to spot qualities like adaptability and teamwork skills that are highly valued in fast-moving work settings like Apple’s. By watching how candidates handle this unexpected little moment, interviewers can learn whether they can manage a bit of pressure and handle social interactions smoothly.
What your actions tell us
The water glass test brings several behavioral clues to light that might otherwise fly under the radar. How a candidate follows simple social norms—like saying thank you or accepting the water politely—can really show off their people skills. Also, the way someone handles a surprise moment can hint at how steady they are when things get a bit hectic.
There’s also a focus on how candidates interact with their surroundings. Even small details, like where they leave the glass after they’re done, might hint at how mindful they are about their environment and respect shared spaces. These little signals give interviewers a peek into whether someone has the soft skills needed to do well in a team setting.
What the experts say about these tests
Brian Scudamore, a go-to guy in recruitment strategies, backs up the idea that these small behaviors can speak volumes—sometimes more than what’s written on a resume. According to him, while knowing your technical stuff is important, watching how you act in everyday moments gives a much clearer picture of who you really are.
He points out that typical interviews can miss these subtle details, which is why quirky methods like the water glass test turn out to be pretty handy when looking for someone who truly fits in with a company’s vibe.
How to ace the water glass test
If you ever find yourself on the receiving end of this unusual test, the best advice is to just be yourself. Experts say not to overthink the situation—simply accepting or politely turning down the glass are both fine moves. The key is to show a sincere and respectful attitude throughout the whole thing.
Letting your genuine self shine through, while still keeping an eye on the little things, can really win over employers who value authenticity. Candidates who strike that balance tend to leave a good, lasting impression.
Why the little things matter in interviews
The water glass test drives home one big point for job seekers: paying attention to details can make a world of difference in an interview. While having the right skills and experience is still a big part of getting hired, the small behaviors you display might reveal a lot about your character and how well you’d mesh with a company’s values.
By being authentic and mindful of even the tiniest actions—whether it’s accepting a glass of water or interacting thoughtfully with your surroundings—you can show qualities that help you stand out from others going for the same job.
With job markets changing at breakneck speed these days, employers are on the lookout for folks who can not only do the technical work but also click well with a team—and maybe nothing shows that better than Steve Jobs’ timeless water glass test.