Most recruiting conversations stay surface-level. We talk roles, titles, numbers. But the best leaders know how to go deeper. In this episode of Recruiting Conversations, I share the single most powerful question I ask in nearly every recruiting conversation:

"What's your long-term professional dream? And what's your personal dream outside of work for the next 10 years?"

That one question changes everything. It moves the conversation from transactional to transformational. It shows people you don't just want to hire them, you want to help them become who they're meant to be.

Episode Breakdown

[00:00] Introduction – Why most recruiting conversations fall flat: they focus on what's now, not what's next [00:45] The Dream Question – Ask both: What's your long-term professional dream? And what's your personal dream outside of work for the next 10 years? [01:15] Why It Works – Most people never get asked about their 10-year vision. When you create that space, you become more than a recruiter, you become a trusted partner [01:30] Examples of Answers

• Professional: "I want to lead a team," "I want to grow to $100M," "I want to move into strategy"

• Personal: "I want to coach my daughter's soccer team," "I want to work remote," "I want to write a book" [02:20] What to Do With Their Answer – Write it down. Label it. Let it shape your future follow-up. Anchor your conversations to their dream, not your offer [02:45] Managers Close. Leaders Connect. – Great recruiters don't sell, they align. They co-create futures [03:00] Final Challenge – In your next recruiting call, ask the deeper question. Then shut up, listen, and take notes. Follow up with belief, not pressure

Key Takeaways

• Ask About the Dream, Not the Deal – When you ask about their 10-year vision, you become unforgettable

• Two Questions That Unlock Trust – What's your long-term professional dream? And what's your personal dream outside of work?

• Lead With Belief, Not Benefits – People are drawn to leaders who see their future clearly

• Follow Up With Purpose – Every message, call, or invite should tie back to the life they told you they want

• The Best Recruiters Are Dream Builders – They don't pitch jobs. They invite people into a better version of their own story

This one question will change your recruiting forever. Ask it. Capture it. Follow up on it. It's how you go from recruiter to trusted guide.

Want help building a recruiting system rooted in purpose and connection? Subscribe to my weekly email at 4crecruiting.com or book a coaching session at bookrichardnow.com.

Let me know if you'd like a printable guide to "dream-based recruiting" questions. I'll send it your way.