We have been interviewing a candidate as of late, here on the old homestead, that on paper is golden. Perfect experience, perfect mix of agency and industry, an educational background that makes the egg-heads of the group go ga-ga. Perfection. But in person, the candidate has a cold confidence about her. She's good. She knows it. And she has multiple agencies nipping at her heels.
Awesome right?
But how about a little humility once in a while? This candidate is so confident, she comes across to many upon first meeting her as snubbing and elitist. I however, have had many more encounters with her - in interview settings as well as networking events - and I know that the edgy, cold and distance melts and softens more every time you meet her. So, when is highly confident too much? When does it cross the line of elitism, versus a true belief in oneself and one's own abilities?
Honestly, I don't know the answer. I am a confident person, and just about everyone I meet says the same thing: "You know, you really come across bitchy the first time meeting you. But you really aren't bitchy at all, just confident and straight-forward." So, what if this candidate is the same way? What if she's not? What if she is a holy terror of know-it-all-itis?
I suppose we'll have to make the decision as a team on whether or not to open ourselves up to a situation that could potentially wrinkle our culture and motto of "No Assholes," and sacrifice it for the talent. It's the dilemma any company faces when the on-paper brilliance is overshadowed by a less than perfect personality fit. My guess is we'll probably pass, but I'll keep you posted.
Post new comment