A Simple & Powerful Question: Revealing a Growth Mindset

I love building teams. Recruiting and hiring exceptional talent, and then fostering employee growth to help them thrive, is one of the most rewarding aspects of leadership. Watching individuals tackle challenges, master new skills, and find genuine satisfaction in their roles is incredibly fulfilling. To me, it’s one of the greatest gifts of leadership.

Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who cultivated cultures of growth and development. Their influence showed me the transformative power of a mindset that prioritizes learning and progress. In fact, I’ve always thrived in environments where growth and development were not just encouraged but expected.

One of my favorite ways to identify potential team members who share this growth-oriented mindset is through a simple yet insightful interview question: “What is something you have learned recently?” This question is deceptively straightforward but incredibly revealing. The variety and authenticity of the answers I’ve received over the years have been as inspiring as the professional accomplishments of the candidates themselves.

I’ve heard responses that ranged from learning new gardening techniques to mastering a digital tool, honing public speaking skills, pursuing an advanced degree, or even diving into an art or athletic endeavor. Every answer offered a glimpse into the candidate’s curiosity, passion, and willingness to grow. Here’s what I’ve discovered about this question:

·?????? It uncovers passions. Whether the learning is brand new or a refinement of a long-held interest, the answer shines a light on what excites and motivates people.

·?????? It breaks the ice. This question shows candidates that my team and I sincerely care about who they are as individuals, beyond their resumes.

·?????? It highlights lifelong learners. Growth-minded candidates tend to light up when they talk about what they’ve been learning—their enthusiasm is contagious.

·?????? It surprises and delights. Many candidates find this question unexpected, but in a refreshing way. It’s a reminder that some employers truly value personal and professional growth.

Identifying individuals with a growth mindset is critical in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing workplace. This question has helped me find people who are resilient, adaptable, comfortable with ambiguity, and open to coaching—qualities that are essential for success in any team.

I’d love to hear from you: What are your go-to interview questions that have sparked great conversations or uncovered unique insights about candidates? Let’s share ideas and keep building stronger, more dynamic teams.