Taboo Game Interviews

Anne Mahlum discovered that performance in the game Taboo correlates strongly with critical thinking abilities and job performance. Here's the insight and framework:

What is Taboo and Why It Matters

• Word-guessing game where players must get teammates to say a specific word
• Cannot use 5 forbidden words listed on the card
• Forces creative thinking and strategic communication
• Requires understanding your audience and thinking on your feet

Why Taboo Predicts Job Performance

• Strong correlation between game performance and critical thinking skills
• People who struggle with Taboo often don't last long at the company
• Game reveals ability to:
  • Think creatively under pressure
  • Adapt communication style to audience
  • Find alternative solutions when obvious paths are blocked
  • Process information quickly
  • Think strategically

Key Indicators from Game Performance

• How players handle getting stuck
• Ability to think on their feet
• Level of frustration when blocked from obvious answers
• Strategic approach to communication
• Adaptability when initial attempts fail

Business Application

• Used game performance as predictor of job success
• Found that best critical thinkers excel at the game
• Number one reason for letting people go was lack of proper judgment and critical thinking
• Game serves as informal assessment tool for evaluating potential hires

The framework suggests using Taboo as an unconventional but effective way to evaluate candidates' ability to think critically and communicate effectively under constraints.