During our breakout session on "Growing a Brand. Growing a Team." at the 2006 In-HOWse Designer Conference, we discussed how to spot “Likeables” and “Assholes” during the job interview process.
We were working under the thinking that “Likeables” are friendly and helpful. They are the consistent performers on project teams. They always meet deadlines. They make others look good. They hold themselves accountable. They have a positive demeanor. They would rather solve matters face-to-face than through email exchanges. They are selfless.
On the other hand, “Assholes” are co-workers that no one wants to work with. These folks keep extensive CYA files. They cc: the world on inconsequential emails. They always have excuses. They would rather engage in divisive hallway conversations than actively participate during project meetings. They are selfish. Yet, every company has them and continues to hire them.
One participant in the breakout session chimed in that “Assholes” can front themselves as a “Likeable” in the interview process only to show their true colors later.
So, how can you distinguish between “Assholes” and “Likeables” during the job interview process?
Our breakout session devised a simple test called THE “I” EXAM.
When interviewing a potential job candidate, listen for how many times they say “I did this” or “I did that” when talking about their past project/group work. Sure, it’s natural for a job candidate to talk about themselves in an interview. But if they routinely say something like, “In the group I led, we did this … and we did that…” then you probably have a “Likeable.”
However, if the job candidate neglects to mention the “We” and only mention the “Me” … then they’ve failed THE “I” EXAM and are most likely “Asshole” material.
Right? Wrong? Any thoughts in-between?
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