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What is the coffee cup test in job interviews?

Apr 18, 2025
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially with the lengthy recruitment process now averaging 44 days. One intriguing aspect discussed is the coffee cup test, where candidates are judged on their willingness to return an empty cup. This approach raises questions about soft skills in hiring. The ethics and impact of such unconventional interview techniques spark varied opinions among listeners, adding depth to the conversation about modern hiring practices.
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ANECDOTE

Trent Innes' Coffee Cup Test

  • Trent Innes uses the coffee cup test in interviews by offering candidates coffee upon arrival.
  • He observes if candidates wash their cup afterward to decide on their hiring eligibility.
INSIGHT

Coffee Cup Test Reveals Attitude

  • The coffee cup test highlights behavioral competencies reflecting a person's attitude.
  • Soft skills show how well one adapts behavior to various situations.
INSIGHT

Rising Importance of Soft Skills

  • Soft skills are visible personality traits affecting work environment interactions.
  • Recruiters increasingly value these skills and use psychometric tests to assess them.
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