Over at Punk Rock HR today, Laurie throws out a thought-provoking question about the role “likability” should play in a hiring decision. “How can you hire a nice person but avoid the trappings of sexism, racism, and other illegal behaviors? Can you hire someone who isn’t the strongest candidate but is 100% nicer than best and most qualified candidate?”
My take: Being “likable” is a qualification, for many jobs at least. You don’t have to rely on your gut, though, to determine if someone has the right personality for a job. It should be evident in their accomplishments, or lack thereof. True jerks tend to have a hard time being effective, at least over the long haul.
Image credit, Entienou, via iStock