Aug
12

The power of 3 letters and a question mark

Cindy Key Action Tips, Job Search Focus 2014-08-12

why
It is a powerful question.  Yet, many don’t like the question.Were you taught not to ask “Why?”  Did someone tell you to use “Why?” sparingly?Yes, some people are defensive when asked “Why?”  Others are not.  Frankly, I think if you want to search for facts,  “Why?”  is a very  powerful question.Asking “Why?” can help you discover information more quickly and in the process accelerate your search.  If you want to determine if a position or organization is a good fit for you, ask “Why?”

When considering a new position ask yourself the following five “Why” questions.  Remember to answer with facts, not interpretations.

  1. Why do you want this job?
  2. Why this job at this organization over any other job?
  3. Why didn’t you know about this job before today?
  4. Why will you be more successful at this job in this organization than at your past position or a previously applied for posting?
  5. Why will you pursue this position and be successful?

These “Five Whys” are helpful in many situations.  The questions (and subsequent answers) allow you to get to the issue, arrive at a decision or gain a better understanding with speed and clarity.

What “Why” questions will you ask today?

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Address: http://accelerateyoursearchnow.com/blog/2014/08/the-power-of-3-letters-and-a-question-mark-why/
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4 comments until now

  1. Lilia Lee @ 2014-08-20 13:37

    Cindy, these are powerful questions for those seeking a new position and as you say for many other situations. They could be applied to anyone seeking to start a business as well. Thanks for sharing them with us today.

  2. Kelly @ 2014-08-21 08:18

    The 5 whys are so useful in life! Whether looking for a job, accepting an opportunity or just making a change in life..

  3. Kathleen Watson @ 2014-08-21 13:26

    Cindy, you’re right on target in saying that “why” can be used very powerfully and positively, or it can be used to beat up on someone (including yourself). It all comes down to choice.

    Last fall I did a blog post that focuses on the difference your “come from” makes when asking this question. Your readers might enjoy the additional perspective here: http://www.steppingintobig.com/are-you-using-why-as-a-whip-or-a-compass/

    And thanks for the great questions; I’m a complete sucker for specific suggestions!

  4. Kelley @ 2014-08-31 13:31

    Cindy asking why of ourselves guides us toward the deeper meaning something has for us and reveals important information for our discernment process. Interestingly, asking why of others is usually taken as judgment or criticism. Great questions you have offered for many life decisions so we can be intentional in our process. Thank you!

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