The Interview Question That Reveals Everything
“I hate surprises.”
It’s a statement that’s both simple and loaded. And when posed as an interview question, it can unlock a treasure trove of insights about a candidate.
Simon Sinek, the renowned author and speaker, swears by this question. And I’ve come to love it too.
The Question:
“Can you tell me something that might go wrong now, so that I’m not surprised in the future?”
It’s not about negativity or dwelling on the worst-case scenario. It’s about inviting honesty, self-awareness, and a proactive mindset.
Why it Works:
- Self-awareness: A candidate who can pinpoint potential challenges demonstrates they’ve critically examined the role and their capabilities. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about knowing where you might need support.
- Honesty: This question encourages transparency. It weeds out those who’d rather paint a rosy picture than acknowledge potential hurdles.
- Problem-solving: How someone responds speaks volumes. Do they panic? Blame others? Or do they outline potential solutions, showcasing their resourcefulness?
The Ideal Answer:
There’s no single “right” answer, but the best ones are:
- Specific: Vague statements like “I might struggle with time management” are less impactful than “I’m still learning [specific software], so there might be an initial learning curve.”
- Thoughtful: The candidate has clearly considered the role’s demands and their own strengths and weaknesses.
- Proactive: The focus isn’t just on identifying problems, but also on potential solutions or strategies to mitigate them.
Red Flags:
- “Nothing” or “I can’t think of anything.” This could signal a lack of self-awareness or an unwillingness to be candid.
- Generic answers: “I might need some time to adjust” is less revealing than “I’ve never worked in [specific industry], so the learning curve might be steep initially.”
- Blame-shifting: The ideal candidate takes ownership. Watch out for those who deflect responsibility onto external factors.
Beyond the Interview:
This question’s power extends beyond hiring. Use it in performance reviews to encourage open communication. Deploy it in project planning to proactively identify potential roadblocks.
The Power of Questions:
At the School of Storytelling, we believe in the transformative power of questions. They spark curiosity, challenge assumptions, and drive deeper understanding.
Ready to Harness That Power?
Join our workshops and learn how to craft compelling stories, ask insightful questions, and connect with your audience on a profound level.
Unleash Your Potential.
#storytelling #communication #leadership #interviewtips #simonSinek
