When I start a Live Session in our interview workshops, I usually ask what ideas have stuck with my adult learners from the online missions. One person nailed it in a simple observation.

This week one principal said, “Our focus is shifting from applicants who teach a content area to those teaching a person.”

When you hear it, that sounds pretty obvious. But how often in education, professional development, leadership coaching, or even a sales call do we focus on the content and not be truly curious about the person?

When we lead with content – the idea, the message WE want to get across – the person gets lost. They may comply, but only while you’re talking.

When we lead with the person AND genuine curiosity about them, now we can focus on helping them solve THEIR problem or learn a new skill.

When we interview with the person in mind at least as much as the resume, we have a higher chance of finding talent we want to keep.

Because you listened first and helped solve the right problem with them, there’s a higher chance you’ll be invited back to do it again. There’s a higher chance the person you are teaching, leading or guiding in a sales process will achieve their goals and pay it forward to someone else.

What helps you remember to keep people in mind when tempted by shiny content?

Life is a team sport. Help your team be curious about people when sharing content and growing the team.