In the high-stakes world of job interviews, where every question could tip the scales, there’s one that notably stands out—a question so simple yet so telling, it could determine your entire career trajectory. This isn’t just about your technical skills or experience; it’s about how you engage with the world around you, a critical trait for thriving in today’s dynamic work environments.
The Interview Game Changer
Chris Williams, a former Vice President of HR at Microsoft, an esteemed podcaster, and a consultant known for his incisive hiring tactics, has disclosed a pivotal question he believes separates the wheat from the chaff in job interviews.
His approach isn’t about tripping candidates up but rather seeing how they connect with ongoing learning and their surroundings.
What have you learned in the last few days? <- is this a good interview question? Can you answer it?https://t.co/GfTfawA2tM
— way0utwest 🎙️ (He/Him/His) (@way0utwest) April 16, 2024
“Tell me something you’ve learned in the last couple of days,” Williams asks, setting the stage early in the job interview.
This inquiry isn’t about catching candidates off-guard with technicalities but inviting them to share something personal and recent, demonstrating their continual engagement with learning—a key indicator of a proactive and adaptable employee.
Job Interview: What Your Answer Says About You
According to Williams, the content of the answer itself is less important than the qualities it reveals. A Job interview candidate might discuss anything from new culinary skills to technological advancements.
What matters is the enthusiasm and clarity they bring to their explanation. It’s about showcasing a natural curiosity and the ability to communicate effectively.
Williams elaborates on the significance of this dialogue: “A great communicator will know how to frame their passion for the topic. They will make it easy to share what they’ve learned.
Their enthusiasm will show through.” In contrast, a lackluster response might signal a lack of initiative or curiosity, crucial red flags in potential hires.
Beyond the Norm: The Philosophy Behind the Question
The concept of asking such open-ended, seemingly casual questions in job interviews isn’t entirely new. Icons like Steve Jobs have utilized similar methods, such as the ‘beer test,’ to gauge whether a candidate fits the company culture beyond their resume credentials.
However, Williams’ question delves deeper into how actively engaged a person is in both personal and professional growth.
This approach to interviewing may seem daunting but offers a genuine opportunity to showcase your personality and passion. Whether it’s a new sport, a tech gadget, or a historical fact, what you choose to share can provide profound insights into your character and potential to grow within a company.
In an era where job roles evolve rapidly and the ability to adapt is invaluable, Williams’ question is more than just a trick to catch you unprepared—it’s a gateway to understanding how you as a candidate perceive and interact with the world.
It’s a reminder that in the relentless pace of professional environments, being a lifelong learner is perhaps the most crucial skill of all.
