What to Say When You Don’t Know the Answer in an Interview

What to Say When You Don’t Know the Answer in an Interview

Interviews can be nerve-wracking at the best of times. But there’s one moment that can really throw even the most prepared candidate off track – being asked a question you simply don’t know the answer to.

Maybe it’s technical. Maybe it’s unexpected. Either way, your mind goes blank, and panic starts to set in. But here’s the good news:

👉 You don’t need to know everything. You just need to know how to handle the moment.

In this blog, we’ll show you exactly what to say (and do) when you're faced with a question you don’t have the answer to – without sabotaging your chances of landing the job.

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🎯 1. Pause and Think – Don’t Rush It

The biggest mistake you can make is diving straight into an answer you’re unsure of.

Take a moment. Breathe. Collect your thoughts.

Even saying something like:

“That’s a great question. Let me take a moment to think about the best way to answer it.”

… shows confidence and composure, which most interviewers respect far more than a rushed or incorrect answer.

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🤝 2. Be Honest, But Show Willingness to Learn

If you truly don’t know the answer, that’s okay. The key is in how you respond with honesty and curiosity.

Instead of bluffing, try something like:

“That’s not something I’ve had experience with yet, but I’d be really keen to learn more. If I encountered this on the job, I’d research it and ask colleagues for advice to ensure it was handled properly.”

This shows self-awareness, humility, and a proactive attitude - all traits employers value highly.

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🔄 3. Relate It to Something Similar You Do Know

Even if you don’t have experience with that exact scenario, chances are you’ve tackled something similar.

For example:

“I haven’t dealt with that specific issue before, but in a similar situation, I did X, Y, and Z. Would that be a relevant approach in this case?”

This response shows you’re a problem-solver, capable of thinking on your feet and applying what you already know to new situations.

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🧠 Why Employers Ask Tough Questions

It’s worth remembering: employers aren’t necessarily testing what you know - they’re testing how you respond under pressure.

What they’re really looking for:

• A calm, thoughtful approach
• Honesty and self-awareness
• Willingness to learn
• Problem-solving skills

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✅ Final Thoughts

Nobody knows everything - and interviewers don’t expect you to. But how you handle not knowing something can say a lot more about you than any rehearsed answer ever could.

By staying calm, honest, and resourceful, you can turn a difficult moment into one that actually strengthens your interview performance.