In a recent interview with CNBC, Jeremy Wacksman, the CEO of Zillow, expressed his concern about the lack of preparation among executive-level job candidates. He noted that it still surprises him how often candidates for senior roles do not do their homework, often asking basic questions that could be easily answered through a quick online search. Wacksman emphasized that candidates should demonstrate their deep understanding of the role they are applying for and what they can contribute to it. Wacksman stated that one of the key indicators of a strong candidate is their intellectual curiosity, which can be assessed through the questions they ask during the interview. He believes that thoughtful, specific questions indicate a genuine interest in the position and suggest that the candidate has invested time in preparing for the discussion. The ability to engage in meaningful dialogue during interviews can set candidates apart in a competitive job market. Additionally, Kelli Valade, former CEO of Denny’s Corp., shares a similar philosophy regarding the importance of candidate questions in the interview process. She often asks applicants about their strengths and weaknesses and follows up with a request for questions from them. Valade believes that thoughtful inquiries reveal a candidate's investment in the role they are applying for, and a lack of questions can signify disinterest. This sentiment is echoed by Twilio CEO Khozema Shipchandler, who also gauges candidates based on their willingness to ask questions. Recruiters from various leading companies are adopting this focus on candidate questions as a fundamental part of the hiring process. Experts agree that asking insightful questions can be a powerful tool for job seekers, as it creates an opportunity for a two-way exchange and shows that the applicant is engaged. Overall, Wacksman’s comments underscore a growing awareness in corporate hiring practices that candidates need to be proactive and well-prepared to succeed in high-profile roles.