Why you should talk about the weather during an interview

I have the pleasure of talking with people all across the country for my job.  One of the first things I almost always ask about is the weather.  You would be surprised how many times I am surprised to find out that Iowa is warmer than Louisiana in February or receiving less snowfall than Atlanta during a freak storm in November.

There are many reasons to talk about the weather, most of which don't have anything to do with whether or not someone is qualified for a job.  Yet I will argue that it is a fabulous topic to discuss for a number of reasons.

First of all, it is NOT on the list of topics you aren't supposed to bring up at work.  You know what I'm talking about - politics, religion, age, etc.  It is an innocent topic that everyone is aware of to some extent.  Especially if the weather pattern on that particular day is abnormal - unseasonably cool, hotter than normal, drought conditions, pending blizzard......you name it and it is likely on the mind of the person interviewing you.  This gives you something to talk about to ease the tension without talking about something sensitive or polarizing.

Secondly, it allows you a glimpse into the other person's personal life without asking probing personal connections.  If someone were to ask me about the weather forecast this time of year I would inevitably start talking about my son's baseball season.  With an extra question or two you would quickly find out that I coach both of his teams and am passionate about the game.  Regardless of whether or not someone shared that passion with me, I am always willing and able to talk about.

Next, it can help set the tone of the interview.  If you ask about the weather and receive a curt answer with no additional banter, you will quickly realize this interview is going to get right down to business.  On the other hand, if you can go back and forth a little, you may see that the other person is willing to talk more freely and openly.  Which may include the culture of the company, details about other colleagues, what the view is on summer clothing options on casual Friday - the list could go on and on.  While this may seem trivial, I would say it is a great way to see the way people interact with each other at that particular company.

Lastly, it could provide an easy entry point to finding things in common with the other person.  Similar to learning about their personal life, you may find out that they are a morning person.  And that daylight savings is their favorite time of the year.  You may find out they like to wake up early to the sunshine and the birds chirping, and they take a walk to start their day.  If you do the same thing, it will provide an instant connection.  Basic human nature is that you want to be around people that share common beliefs or traits.  Heck, this could even spark a relationship that goes beyond the normal 8:00-5:00 working hours should you get hired.

Have you ever brought up the weather and have it turn into an entirely different conversation?  I bet you learned something if it did!