How to succeed in business: Be likable. Jerks Usually Stuggle Even If They’re Talented

Are you a likable employee? How much does it matter to you if your boss is a kind woman? Would you rather work with someone who knows what he is doing but is a jerk? Or would you rather be on a project with someone who might be a bit clueless but really nice?

According to research on this topic, a person’s likability is an important factor when it comes to being hired, promoted or able to rally workplace troops.

In other words, Dilbert’s boss is doomed. His bad attitude means his employees won’t bend over backward to help him. But if he were likable, maybe Dilbert would actually get some work done.

According to a Harvard Business School study released last summer, people choose work partners based on, naturally, their competence on the job but, more notably, on their likability.

By Amy Joyce
Washington Post

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