I oversaw hiring at Microsoft. Here’s the one interview question that makes or breaks job candidates — and what I looked for in an answer

• Chris Williams is the former VP of HR at Microsoft and a podcaster, consultant, and TikTok creator.
• He always asks job candidates to tell him something they’ve learned recently.
• Quality candidates will have a ready answer that shows their passion; if they get stuck, it’s a red flag.

If I could pick just one question to ask a candidate in an interview, it would be short and simple. A great answer would kick off a discussion between us and tell me almost everything I need to know about them.

As a former VP of HR at Microsoft, I’ve not only interviewed countless candidates, but I’ve worked with and led interviewer training for hiring managers at all levels. 

There are a few important things I’m looking for when hiring. I want to see a smart, passionate learner who can communicate. Someone who can dive right into whatever challenge comes their way. A person who will promptly learn what they need to and help others by sharing what they’ve learned.