The job market is tight right now. Even the most qualified candidates are struggling to get noticed. Friends and colleagues tell me it is taking them months or even a year to land a position. So, what can you do to ensure you make it to the next level in the interview process? First, be sure your background is not too much of a stretch to land the jobs for which you apply. If it’s not about lacking skills or experience, it’s likely about cutting through the noise in a sea of applicants. So, ask yourself: What could be the missing link? It likely could be your level of curiosity, which could be the one critical thing you need to develop to get that coveted job.
Why Curiosity Is So Critical To Landing A Job
The reality is, recruiters and hiring managers are on the lookout for candidates who stand out—those who show a genuine interest in the role, team, and company culture. Not demonstrating curiosity can be a turnoff to recruiters. Curiosity goes beyond qualifications; it shows you’re eager to learn, adaptable, and ready to bring fresh perspectives. In a LinkedIn survey, 92% of hiring managers said soft skills can be more important than hard skills, with curiosity being a top contender. Demonstrating curiosity can help ensure you are not just another resume in the pile.
Ask Questions In The Job Interview That Go Beyond the Basics
In my work presenting to future graduates through university career centers, I often hear students ask, “What questions should I ask in an interview?” I tell them it’s not about having a pre-set list; it’s about being genuinely curious. For example, one student who landed a job at a top tech firm asked during her interview, “What are the key qualities or skills that have been most valuable to people who have succeeded in this role in the past?” This question not only demonstrated curiosity about the role but also opened up a conversation that led to showcasing problem-solving skills relevant to those challenges. Instead of generic questions, dig deeper to show that you’re already thinking about the impact you could make.
Adjust Your Approach To How You Ask Questions For Every Interview Stage
Different stages of the interview process call for different kinds of curiosity. When speaking to students who are about to graduate, I often emphasize the importance of tailoring your questions to each interview stage. When initially talking to a recruiter, it is about gauging fit, so ask about the company culture, values, and what makes someone successful there. When you get to a hiring manager or potential colleague, shift the focus to how the department is evolving or what challenges they anticipate in the next six months.
Show Curiosity in Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter aren’t just a place to list what you’ve done—they showcase how you think. I encourage students to go beyond bullet points and weave in stories where their curiosity has led to a tangible outcome. Did you lead a project that solved a significant problem because you asked questions no one else did? Did your inquisitiveness lead to adopting a new technology or process that improved efficiency? Show how your desire to dig deeper created value.
Network Like a Journalist, Not a Job Seeker
I’ve seen the difference it makes when candidates approach networking with curiosity rather than neediness. Instead of saying, “I’m looking for a job in marketing,” try, “I’m fascinated by how digital marketing strategies are shifting with AI. How is your organization approaching these changes?” This approach is more likely to foster genuine connections that open doors.
Frame Your Behavioral Stories with a Curiosity Angle
Behavioral interviews can be a test of memorized answers. When asked about a challenging situation, you might say, “I noticed a recurring issue and got curious about why it was happening. That led me to dig into the data, uncover a root cause no one had seen before, and propose a solution that saved us time and resources.” This not only answers the question but highlights your proactive and problem-solving mindset.
Show You’re a Lifelong Learner Beyond the Job Requirements
Companies today are looking for people who are genuinely invested in growing. Talk about the webinars, courses, or side projects you’re pursuing, not because they’re required, but because you’re curious. Are you experimenting with data analytics on your own? Are you exploring new trends in design? These questions tell the interviewer that your curiosity runs deeper. It is important to highlight any passion projects during interviews.
Conclusion: Make Curiosity Your Brand
In today’s job market, curiosity is a powerful differentiator. It’s what makes you memorable, what makes you relatable, and what makes you the kind of person a company wants on their team. When you lead with curiosity, you’re not just applying for a job—you’re showing up as someone who’s ready to learn, grow, and make an impact. So, ask the questions, dig deeper, and don’t be afraid to show that you’re genuinely interested. Your future employers will notice.