UPDATE: In a groundbreaking revelation, Snowflake CEO Sridhar Ramaswamy has shared a unique interview question that aims to break candidates away from rehearsed responses. During the latest episode of the Sourcery podcast, released on October 14, 2023, Ramaswamy emphasized the importance of adaptability and personal growth in job candidates, especially in today’s rapidly changing tech landscape.
Ramaswamy, who took the helm at Snowflake in 2024, explained that he is not interested in the standard inquiries about past work experiences. Instead, he poses a thought-provoking question: “Tell me how you changed yourself.” He believes that this question reveals deeper insights into a candidate’s character and potential, going beyond the usual rehearsed answers.
“I don’t like typical responses,” Ramaswamy stated. “All practiced answers don’t reflect who the person is. The combination of drive and malleability really sets amazing people apart, especially in a moment like this.” As the tech industry pivots toward AI integration, the demand for adaptable talent has never been more critical.
This approach is echoed by other tech leaders. In a recent podcast, Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke shared his strategy for identifying candidates with entrepreneurial spirit. He asks, “Have you started a company before?” This question serves as a litmus test for resilience and creativity in the face of challenges.
Additionally, Amy Cappellanti-Wolf, chief people officer at Dayforce, highlights the significance of constructive feedback in her interviews. She encourages candidates to share recent feedback they are actively addressing, signaling a commitment to personal and professional growth. “If candidates say they don’t receive feedback, that’s a problem,” she noted.
As tech executives seek to fill their ranks with talent that can navigate uncertainty, innovative interview techniques are becoming essential. Ramaswamy’s insights are not just a trend; they reflect a significant shift in hiring practices, emphasizing emotional intelligence and adaptability over traditional qualifications.
This new focus on human-centric qualities underscores a broader industry movement aimed at fostering resilience and adaptability among employees. By prioritizing personal transformation and entrepreneurial mindset, leaders like Ramaswamy and Lütke are shaping the future of hiring in technology.
As this story develops, industry watchers will be keen to see how these unconventional interview tactics impact hiring outcomes in a sector where agility is paramount. For job seekers, adapting to these new expectations could provide a competitive edge in the job market.
Stay tuned for further updates on hiring trends and strategies that are reshaping the tech industry.
