Though preparing for a job interview can feel daunting, it's vital to recognize the challenges faced by interviewers. With limited time to thoroughly assess applicants, they must devise questions quickly. Chris Williams, a former HR vice president at Microsoft, sheds light on this aspect of candidate evaluation.
Leveraging his experience as a podcaster, consultant, and HR expert, Williams underscores the significance of identifying driven individuals with strong communication and adaptability skills.
Williams introduces a unique question at the interview's outset to gauge a candidate's suitability: "Tell me something you've learned in the last couple of days." This query assesses applicants' ability to articulate experiences, curiosity, and flexibility. Their response offers valuable insights. Williams stresses that regardless of the topic, a promising candidate demonstrates enthusiasm and a willingness to share new knowledge.
Furthermore, a candidate's capability to share recent learning demonstrates their potential for effective teamwork. Williams underscores the importance of applicants engaging interviewers with their hobbies and experiences, framing them to highlight communication skills and a hunger for knowledge.
Conversely, candidates struggling to provide meaningful responses may raise red flags. Williams suggests that an inability to articulate recent learning experiences could indicate a lack of engagement or flexibility. While such instances are rare, they warrant additional evaluation to ensure alignment with the organization's standards.
Essentially, Williams' unconventional approach to questioning serves as a potent tool for evaluating candidates not only on technical prowess but also on curiosity, adaptability, and communication skills. By prompting applicants to reflect on recent educational experiences, interviewers gain insight into their potential fit within the company.
Candidates must prepare to navigate job interviews successfully, while interviewers must pose insightful questions. Nontraditional methods, such as Williams', offer a comprehensive means of assessing candidates and facilitate the identification of exceptional individuals who align with the company's objectives and values.