Why Hiring for Personality is More Important Than Hiring for Skillset

The Importance of Personality in Hiring

When it comes to hiring new employees, many hiring managers tend to focus solely on a candidate’s set of skills and qualifications. However, recent studies have shown that hiring for personality traits may actually be more important than hiring for skillset.

Why Personality Trumps Skillset

It’s no secret that having the right skills and qualifications is important for any job. However, in many cases, skills can be taught, whereas personality traits cannot. Hiring for personality rather than skillset can lead to better cultural fit, increased job satisfaction, and improved productivity.

One study conducted by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who fit well within a company’s culture are more likely to enjoy their work, interact better with colleagues, and stay with the company longer.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It is a highly valued trait in many workplaces, as it can lead to better communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration.

When hiring for a role, it is important to assess a candidate’s emotional intelligence. This can be done through behavioral-based interview questions, as well as through personality assessments that measure traits such as empathy and self-awareness.

Case Study: Zappos

The online shoe and clothing retailer Zappos is known for its unique and fun corporate culture. In fact, the company’s core values include “Create Fun and A Little Weirdness” and “Deliver ‘Wow’ Through Service.”

When hiring new employees, Zappos places a heavy emphasis on personality and cultural fit. The company conducts two separate interviews: one to assess a candidate’s skills and qualifications, and another to evaluate their personality and values.

As a result of this hiring strategy, Zappos has experienced lower turnover rates, higher employee engagement, and increased customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

While having the right skills and qualifications is important, hiring for personality traits may actually be a more effective approach. By assessing emotional intelligence, evaluating cultural fit, and emphasizing personality during the hiring process, companies can build stronger teams, improve productivity, and create a more positive work environment overall.