You are saying that you ask this question to gauge the attitude, creativity and interest.
Actually I ask this question specifically because it is such a rallying point of angry, offended developers (specifically those who interview a lot, unsuccessfully, thus having a serious chip on their shoulder about the interview process). If someone is going to be a prima donna, unable to communicate with peers without a dismissive attitude, I desperately want to weed them out at the beginning. This question serves that purpose brilliantly.
What does it say about you?
Is this one of those "we're equals" things? I think the interviewees I adore the most are those that try to "turn the table" and interview me. Throw some hardballs to determine if we're worth their trouble.
We pay far above the norm. We have flexible hours and telecommuting. We work on fantastic technologies that are driven by our development staff. Meaning we are in the driver's seat. I will engage every filter I can conceive to cull the herd, and I've found that asinine question to be a perfect tool for that.
Actually I ask this question specifically because it is such a rallying point of angry, offended developers (specifically those who interview a lot, unsuccessfully, thus having a serious chip on their shoulder about the interview process). If someone is going to be a prima donna, unable to communicate with peers without a dismissive attitude, I desperately want to weed them out at the beginning. This question serves that purpose brilliantly.
What does it say about you?
Is this one of those "we're equals" things? I think the interviewees I adore the most are those that try to "turn the table" and interview me. Throw some hardballs to determine if we're worth their trouble.
We pay far above the norm. We have flexible hours and telecommuting. We work on fantastic technologies that are driven by our development staff. Meaning we are in the driver's seat. I will engage every filter I can conceive to cull the herd, and I've found that asinine question to be a perfect tool for that.