I came across some of the best job interview advice I’d ever heard this week (from my friend Logan):
When the interview is coming to a close, take charge for a second. Say “You’ve seen my resume, and we’ve spent an hour together – what concerns do you have about me that would keep me from being qualified for this role?”
I’m a big fan of the ownership mindset this approach signals. This is the opposite of the common “I’ll wait to hear what they say” approach. It shows awareness, gives you a chance to address concerns, and demonstrates maturity.
And this applies not only to job interviews but after you get the job as well. Project pitches, budget asks, review meetings, 1:1s … these all benefit from open, frank conversation. This is how you lean in.
Too many employees start the employee-employer relationship off by asking permission and waiting. This sets up a series of dysfunctional approaches that gut work of fulfillment.
We wait to be chosen.
And when employees don’t have the mindset, attitude, skill, or experience of acting like an owner, everyone suffers.
You experience better outcomes and increased motivation when you act like an owner.
Questions to consider
- When could I use this approach in the next month to take more ownership?
- How can I teach and encourage others around me to use this question?
- What am I “waiting” for? How could I push that along vs passively waiting?