Questioned on Technical Knowledge You Don't Have

During the interview, we all try to finesse our way to answering the questions asked in the best way possible. We oftentimes guess or attempt to answer a question that we do not really have the correct answer to. With the right bit of poise and speaking ability, you can still make a good impression.

But what if it is a technical question in a field such as computers, science or statistics where the answer can only be right or wrong? You either know the info or you do not. (EX: “How do you begin troubleshooting a computer that is not responsive and only has a blue screen?”)

I have recently received feedback from a few small business owners in the IT field about how they would prefer a person answers a technical question if they do not have the answer:

“Admit that you do not know the answer”: They felt it saves the employer and the job seekers time. Once you admit that you do not know, you can explain how you are going about learning this particular area through self-directed study or in the classroom and that you will have a greater grasp of the concepts within a relatively short period of time.

What do you think of the employer’s suggestion on answering the question? What would you do?