Good leaders could learn a thing or two from a fictional TV homicide detective named Lt. Columbo. A true staple, the program ran on American network television for more than 30 years. In every episode, the show’s writers include an interview technique which has become Columbo’s trademark. As you might recall, the disheveled and clumsy Columbo is highly deferential to suspects. Combined with absentmindedness’, he lulls criminals into a false sense of security. Viewers have come to know the pattern well. Columbo asks a suspect a series of questions that doesn’t seem to add up to much. At the conclusion of his interview, he steps toward the door and, just before leaving, turns away and says, “One more thing,” or “There’s something I forgot to ask.” He then asks the key question that reveals everything he really wants to know.
Make Less of a Critical Question
Make Less of a Critical Question
Make Less of a Critical Question
Good leaders could learn a thing or two from a fictional TV homicide detective named Lt. Columbo. A true staple, the program ran on American network television for more than 30 years. In every episode, the show’s writers include an interview technique which has become Columbo’s trademark. As you might recall, the disheveled and clumsy Columbo is highly deferential to suspects. Combined with absentmindedness’, he lulls criminals into a false sense of security. Viewers have come to know the pattern well. Columbo asks a suspect a series of questions that doesn’t seem to add up to much. At the conclusion of his interview, he steps toward the door and, just before leaving, turns away and says, “One more thing,” or “There’s something I forgot to ask.” He then asks the key question that reveals everything he really wants to know.