The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success According To Network Science: A Cheatsheet for User Interview and Follow Ups Questions

The No. 1 Predictor Of Career Success According To Network Science: A Cheatsheet for User Interview and Follow Ups Questions

In the pursuit of career success, we often search for that one key factor that will set us apart from the rest. We look for personality traits, skills, and experiences that will make us stand out in a competitive job market. However, what if the secret to success lies not in one specific quality, but in the interplay of seemingly opposite qualities?

A prime example of this paradoxical interplay can be found in the legendary Apple co-founder, Steve Jobs. Jobs was known for his maniacal focus and insatiable curiosity. These two qualities, seemingly contradictory, actually fueled his success. His curiosity allowed him to explore new ideas, gain unique insights, and connect with world-class people who complemented his own skillset. Meanwhile, his unwavering focus enabled him to pursue these ideas relentlessly and turn them into reality.

This concept of combining focus and curiosity can be applied to various aspects of our careers. In the field of user research, for instance, it is essential to approach interviews and follow-up questions with an open mind and a curious attitude. Stéphanie Walter, a UX designer and mobile expert, has provided a helpful cheatsheet for conducting user interviews.

One key principle highlighted in the cheatsheet is the use of open discovery questions. Instead of starting questions with "did you," "have you," or "were you," it is more effective to use "why" or "how" to encourage users to share their thoughts and insights. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the user's experiences and preferences.

Understanding user tasks and activities is another crucial aspect of user research. By delving into the specific tasks and activities that users engage in, researchers can gain valuable insights into their needs and pain points. This information can then be used to design more user-friendly and effective products and services.

However, it is important to note that people may have difficulty projecting into the future. Asking users to anticipate their future needs or preferences should be approached with caution, as their responses may not accurately reflect their actual behavior. Nevertheless, these types of questions can still provide valuable insights into users' opinions, points of view, and attitudes.

When it comes to discussing problems and pain points, researchers should create a safe and open environment for users to express their concerns. This can be done through sentence completion exercises or drawing activities, which allow users to communicate their experiences in a more creative and intuitive manner.

During the interview process, it is crucial for researchers to bounce back from unexpected answers or dig deeper into specific topics. This shows a genuine interest in the user's perspective and encourages them to share more information. Additionally, asking for clarification, rephrasing, interpreting, and mirroring the user's responses can help ensure a deeper understanding of their thoughts and feelings.

Recalling past experiences can also be a powerful tool in user interviews. By asking users to reflect on their previous encounters with similar products or services, researchers can gain insights into what worked well and what could be improved. This information can then be used to inform future design decisions.

Silence is another powerful tool in the interviewer's arsenal. Allowing for moments of silence during the interview can give users the opportunity to gather their thoughts and provide more considered responses. It also shows respect for their input and allows for a more meaningful conversation.

Finally, it is important to remember that the end of the interview does not necessarily mean the end of the conversation. Leaving room for follow-up questions or further exploration can lead to additional insights and a deeper understanding of the user's needs.

In conclusion, the No. 1 predictor of career success, as revealed by network science, lies in the paradoxical interplay of qualities such as maniacal focus and insatiable curiosity. This concept can be applied not only to the career of Steve Jobs but also to various aspects of our own professional lives. When conducting user interviews, it is important to approach the process with an open mind and a curious attitude. Incorporating the actionable advice provided by Stéphanie Walter can lead to more insightful and effective user research. By combining the qualities of focus and curiosity, we can unlock new opportunities for success in our careers.