If you’re interviewing people for work and are looking for ways to better understand the person in front of you, ask them the following question:

What have you changed your mind about in the past six months?

This is my favorite question to ask at interviews. It always leads to an interesting exchange and provides insights into a person's thoughts and actions. It does not matter if I interview a junior developer, a senior QA engineer, or a manager. I never regret asking it.

Ask it at your next interview, and you'll be surprised. Be specific and ask it verbatim. I like to ask it about two-thirds of the way through. After you ask it, wait. If someone does not answer it within a minute of thinking, clarify that it could be something professional or personal. Suggest that it does not need to be grand. If they say, "I don't know," repeat the question gently. Assure them that there is no right or wrong answer.

I've been told multiple times that this is the hardest question the candidate has been asked at a job interview. People actually pause to think instead of giving you a rehearsed answer. The responses you will get will offer a unique perspective into who you might be working with.

When they answer, please pay attention to how enthusiastic they are about changing their mind. Are they giving you a "gimme" safe answer, or are they coming up with something genuine? Are they willing to engage in a conversation about the topic? Did their eyes light up? Are they uncomfortable? Follow up on the answer and turn it into a conversation. Feel free to share something of your own.

By asking and discussing this question, you not only learn about each other but also set a tone of open-mindedness in your relationship. This tone can be a strong foundation for your future working relationship, should you end up working together.