In recruitment, a personality hire refers to the practice of hiring candidates for their personality, rather than their tangible skill set.[1][2][3] Personality hires typically have stronger soft skills than hard skills, may serve as a morale booster within the workplace, and help build corporate culture.[4][5][6][7] Some candidates may label themselves as personality hires due to imposter syndrome.[8] The term came into mainstream use in 2023 and is similar to that of a diversity hire.[9]
A personality hire may be reflective of an implicitcognitiveaffinity bias.[10] Personality hires have been criticized for their lack of skills and competency.[11]
Due to their sociable personalities, personality hires may have to set personal boundaries.[10]