Interview prep is an important part of the application process, often highlighting the differences between different candidates. However, one thing that job seekers may not prepare for are the sneaky tests hiring managers are using, such as the 'Coffee Cup Test', or the 'Wobbly Chair Test' which aim to test candidates' personalities.

The firm Kickresume has provided Digital Journal with some tips for job seekers with upcoming interviews to prepare for the sneaky tests hiring managers may use to make a judgement on personality.

The coffee cup test and other interview surprises: how job seekers can prepare

Hiring managers have been sharing some of the surprising ways they try to test candidates' personalities in job interviews, with job seekers also sharing stories online about some of the tests they have experienced. Marta Říhová, HR Expert at the AI career tool Kickresume, has put together an overview of some of these personality tests, as well as providing tips on how candidates can use these hidden tests as an opportunity to impress hiring managers.

Marta Říhová, HR Expert at Kickresume, says: "Most jobseekers show up to interviews well-prepared -- balancing multiple applications, polishing their CVs and cover letters -- but one thing they might not expect? Hidden interview tests. These little surprises are designed to reveal something about a candidate's personality and whether they'd be a good fit for the team. Some of them are pretty unusual."

In terms of examples, Říhová further finds:

The water test - If you're offered a glass of water, how you handle it might say more about you than you think. Drinking it at a normal pace could signal confidence, while declining it or downing it too quickly could suggest the opposite.

The coffee cup test - One hiring manager swears by this: after the interview, do candidates take their empty coffee cup to the kitchen? It's a small gesture, but some see it as a sign of politeness and initiative.

The Rubik's cube test - Don't panic You're not actually expected to solve it. This one is all about observing how you approach a challenge rather than whether you can complete it.

The jigsaw test - Some employers hand candidates a tricky jigsaw puzzle. If you refuse, it might suggest you don't waste time on unnecessary tasks. But if you dive in, it could show that you're the type to focus on getting things done -- no matter what.

The wobbly chair test - You sit down for the interview and realize the chair is unsteady. Do you put up with it or swap it for another? Making the switch could be seen as a sign of confidence and decisiveness.

Some hiring managers find these tests useful, others think they don't really prove anything. After all, someone might decline a glass of water simply to avoid needing a bathroom break, or because they don't want to leave a lipstick stain on the glass. So, it's probably not the best idea to base hiring decisions solely on these little 'gotcha' moments."

Říhová shares some tips on how to handle these hidden tests:

Be cool, courteous, and confident - These tests seem to be designed to see if you come across as polite and self-assured. Good body language and staying calm go a long way. So if you're offered water, just accept it and sip it naturally -- just in case it's a test.

Be yourself - Hiring managers appreciate authenticity. As long as you stay professional, letting a little personality shine through can work in your favour. If you'd swap a wobbly chair anywhere else, why not do it in an interview? Plus, it signals confidence.

Stay calm - You can't predict every curveball in an interview, so the best approach is to stay collected and answer questions honestly. And remember, first impressions count -- so be in 'interview mode' from the moment you step into the building and treat everyone with respect, just as you normally would.