If you’ve ever been in a job interview and realized halfway through that you don’t quite understand a reference to “current events” or “industry trends,” you’re not alone.
In the course I created and taught called Career Success Preparation at The Media School, Indiana University, about halfway through every semester, I’d give my students a quiz with 20+ questions. It would feature everything from dates in history (Vietnam War) to the US National Debt debt and lots in between. It was always a fun and engaging experience that sparked lots of conversation and a good deal of self-awareness. While are were wonderful, bright students, not many cracked the 60 percent mark, and some had a look that said, “Do I really need to know this?” Spoiler: You do!
Why? Because the more you understand what has happened and is happening in the world, the more powerful you become as a candidate, a leader and a person who can talk about something beyond last night’s episode of Dancing With The Stars (as enjoyable as that may be).
Here are 7 reasons why expanding your knowledge on the world around you makes you a force to be reckoned with in your career.
1. You Can Put Things In Context
Knowing current events isn’t just about rattling off trivia — it’s about being able to put things in context. When you understand how world events affect industries, markets or even company values, you bring real-world perspective to the table. For instance, understanding economic shifts can help you explain why a company’s growth strategy might need to pivot or why a particular market is experiencing turbulence. Context gives you the power to think strategically and act wisely. (And yes, your future boss will notice.)
2. You Become A Better Interviewee & High-Demand Candidate
When you’re informed, you ask better questions. It’s simple: understanding trends, issues and global challenges allows you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews. Instead of generic questions, you can ask things like, “How has your company responded to changes in technology and remote work?” or “What’s your perspective on X trend impacting the industry?” These aren’t just smart questions; they show that you’re invested in the field and looking beyond the basics. An informed candidate is a memorable, high-demand candidate.
3. You Refine Your Brand & Professional Identity
Expanding your knowledge isn’t just for conversation — it shapes your brand. When you’re well-versed in topics beyond your immediate job duties, you position yourself as a thought leader and someone who’s constantly growing. This awareness gives depth to your professional image, showing that you’re not just there to “do a job” but to understand your field and its impact. Over time, this reputation as an engaged, knowledgeable professional makes you invaluable in any workspace.
4. You Become Way More Interesting
If you’ve ever been in a conversation where everyone is nodding along to someone who just “knows things,” you understand the appeal of being well-informed. Knowledge is power, yes, but it’s also personality. When you’re aware of what’s happening around you, you bring insight and energy to conversations. Whether you’re at a networking event, a conference or just chatting in the break room, having something to add on a range of topics — from culture to trends — makes you someone people want to know (and maybe even hire).
5. You Build Self-Awareness
Knowing the world around you is surprisingly useful for understanding yourself. Why? Because when you’re tuned in to different perspectives, you start to reflect on your own. How do you feel about X policy or Y industry trend? What role do you want to play in shaping these areas? Why do you hold certain opinions? Are they accurate? Expanding your awareness builds a stronger sense of purpose, which guides your career choices and personal goals. A self-aware employee is a rare gem.
6. You Become More Valuable To Your Team & Organization
Informed employees are assets — plain and simple. When you’re up to speed on issues affecting your field and beyond, you’re more equipped to bring ideas to the table that are timely, relevant and valuable. Whether it’s suggesting a strategic move based on a global trend or providing insights into consumer behavior, being knowledgeable means you’re ready to contribute in ways that go beyond your job description. The more you know, the more your team and company will lean on you as an invaluable resource.
7. You Get Smarter — Literally
Learning and staying informed literally changes your brain. Studies show that consistently absorbing new information enhances memory, sharpens cognitive function and even increases mental resilience. Basically, the more you know, the sharper you stay. This mental agility doesn’t just make you a better candidate, it makes you better at adapting, problem-solving and thriving in any career environment. Intelligence may be intangible, but it leaves a lasting impression.
Practical Ways To Build Your Knowledge
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. How do you expand your knowledge without spending hours poring over every news source?
Be Intentional With Your Knowledge Goals: Just like setting goals in your career, be clear about what you want to learn each day. Approach it with intention, like, “Today, I’m learning about X,” or “I’m spending time gaining knowledge on Y.” Whether it’s understanding global economics, industry trends or cultural shifts, defining your focus helps you dive deep into areas that genuinely matter to you and align with your goals. This intentional approach keeps your learning purposeful and impactful, and makes what you learn more memorable.
Diversify Your News Sources: Read from sources with different perspectives to get a balanced view. Try a mix of domestic and international outlets to broaden your understanding.
Listen To Industry-Specific Podcasts: Choose one or two solid podcasts in your field or general topics like economics, culture or innovation. They’re easy to consume and often provide high-level insights quickly.
Set Up Alerts: Use tools like Google Alerts for specific trends or topics. Get summaries in your inbox instead of scrolling through endless feeds.
Talk To People: Nothing builds knowledge like engaging with others who know more. Whether it’s mentors, industry professionals, or even friends in different fields, conversations can give you real-world perspectives and insights.
Stay Curious: Simply commit to staying curious. The world is always changing — make it your goal to keep learning. Even if you start small, these efforts build over time.
Conclusion: Let Your Knowledge Be Your Superpower
Being informed isn’t just a checkbox on a professional growth list; it’s the thing that makes you stand out. Knowledge connects you to the world, boosts your self-awareness, refines your brand, and makes you a go-to candidate that employers can’t ignore.
So, get out there, explore the world beyond your bubble, and let your expanding knowledge shape not just your career but the way you see yourself. Because, in the end, the best candidates don’t just show up — they show up informed, engaged and ready to make an impact.
Your Move
Hopefully it's clear why being in the know makes you the candidate everybody wants. Ready to start building a career that reflects the best of who you are? Check out my latest post, “The Dream Job Formula,” for insights on designing a meaningful career that aligns with what truly matters to you. Need support landing your dream job? Learn more about Precision Coaching and how it can help you hit your career goals with clarity and confidence. And for regular insights, subscribe to Dream Job Diaries to stay inspired and on track.
Maria Katrien Angeleva, MA, MA
Certified Coach, Author & Trainer
Dubbed “Professor Dream Job,” by her students, Trie is a former COO and founder of Reimagine Monday. She specializes in helping individuals transform their careers and lives through mindful, strategic approaches. Trie developed and taught career success courses at Indiana University, building on her proven methodology, The Love Monday Method. Her latest release, Launch, designed to help new college grads get unstuck in their search and empower their new career, is now available for pre-order.
With two Master's degrees, a Certificate in Executive Leadership from Cornell University, six coaching certifications and a deep passion for guiding new graduates and professionals in their prime, Trie supports individuals in navigating their career paths with clarity and confidence, and is dedicated to helping YOU turn your dream job into a reality.
Connect with Trie at trie@reimaginemonday.com.
