Asking for Contrary Evidence

When an interviewer thinks a candidate has all the wrong skills or behaviors, they may tend to ask questions that confirm their negative impressions. Sometimes all that’s needed is to step back, regain perspective, and ask for contrary information.

For example, if all your interview questions have focused on situations that turned out well, you should ask questions that focus on situations in which things didn’t work out well. If you’re thinking this candidate truly “walks on water,” it’s time to ask for contrary information.