TikTok and Instagram are awash with videos about so-called personality hires: young, fun-loving employees whose main contribution to the job seems to be… well, “vibes.” These videos are tongue-in-cheek, but they raise interesting questions about the role our personality plays at work: How important should personality be in hiring decisions? Can we value being a good colleague? And can being known for your cheerful personality give the impression that you don’t know what you’re doing? To find out, Isabel speaks with NYU professor Tessa West, who explains why understanding status is crucial to success at work. Isabel also speaks with Bella Rose Mortel, social media strategist and self-proclaimed hired personality, who explains that charisma alone is no substitute for competence.
They want more? Free links:
Psychological tests can help companies hire better, but accuracy is not guaranteed
Competent idiots have a useful life in the office.
No passion please, we are British.
Is Myers-Briggs up to the job?
Credits:
Hosted by Isabel Berwick, produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, mixed by Simon Panayi. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s head of audio.