Can you pass the bizarre job interview test? Manager’s 'Alphabet challenge' sparks outrage and curiosity

Job interviews are notoriously stressful, but one manager has added an unusual twist that has left many scratching their heads. The manager, who shared their method anonymously on Reddit, introduced an "alphabet test" to assess candidates—and refuses to hire anyone who fails it.

The test is deceptively simple: interviewees are handed a pen and paper and asked to write the alphabet without questioning the task. But beneath this seemingly mundane request lies a deeper evaluation method that’s sparked mixed reactions.

The Method Behind the Madness

The anonymous boss explained that the alphabet test serves two purposes. “First, it determines whether they actually know the alphabet, which is surprisingly relevant for a basic function of the job,” the manager noted. “Second, it checks if they can follow a simple instruction without asking ‘why?’ or challenging the task.”


While the test may sound odd, it reportedly garnered interest from HR teams—and a few raised eyebrows from the company’s legal department.

Divided Reactions Online

The internet has been quick to weigh in on the manager’s unique strategy. One Reddit user called the test “stupid,” while another defended it as a way to identify “mindless drones.”

“As a manager, I prefer employees who understand the ‘why’ behind tasks,” a user commented. “I’d rather work with personalities than sheep.”

The Salt and Pepper Test

This alphabet challenge isn’t the only unconventional interview method making waves. Another Reddit user described a “salt and pepper” test once used by their former company.

During a lunch interview, the interviewer observed whether candidates tasted their food before adding seasoning. If they reached for salt or pepper without trying the dish, they failed the interview.

Are These Tests Fair or Flawed?

These unconventional methods may be polarizing, but they highlight a growing trend of using nontraditional approaches in recruitment. Whether they’re seen as quirky or questionable, one thing is certain—interview tests like these are keeping candidates on their toes.