The Personality Traits That Can Help Workers Move Ahead

For decades, candidates have suspected there’s more to acing interviews than their resume alone. Hiring managers have known it, and the data now supports it. Informal behaviors such as casual conversations, email communication, and rapport with administrative staff may carry more weight than an applicant’s qualifications.

According to a recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll for Express Employment Professionals, 91% of U.S. hiring managers say a candidate’s personality is as important as their qualifications, while 86% say preferable personal attributes can compensate for a lack of specific skills. 

These findings highlight an evolving approach to talent acquisition. Foundational personality traits, like reliability, integrity, and adaptability, are becoming central to recruitment strategies as technical expertise becomes easier to teach and AI tools automate routine responsibilities. 

The First Conversation Is the Real Interview

The research shows that initial interactions can significantly influence hiring outcomes. According to the study, around 87% of hiring managers say they decide whether an applicant will thrive at their organization based on their first discussion. Meanwhile, 61% of employers use informal touchpoints, such as pre- or post-interview small talk, messaging tone, and interactions with support staff, to evaluate candidates’ soft skills.

Today’s job applicants are aware of this heightened focus on their personality traits. 61% of job seekers express concern regarding how their personal demeanor is perceived, and 94% report having their personalities assessed during the recruitment process through:

• Informal conversations (47%)
• Situational inquiry (46%)
• Behavioral questions (45%)
• Reference verification (43%)
• Structured personality assessments (37%)

The Traits Employers Value Most

Hiring managers and job seekers largely agree on the personality traits employers value most. Reliability ranks first, followed by honesty, adaptability, flexibility, self-motivation, and work ethic.

The survey cites that 94% of hiring managers and 91% of job seekers say personality shapes how performance is perceived once hired, additionally 99% of hiring managers believe a positive or approachable personality can directly accelerate career advancement, a view shared by job seekers. 

“Every employee has an effect on the workplace beyond the responsibilities listed in a job description,” Bob Funk Jr., the CEO, president, and chairman of Express Employment International, said. “The right personality can build trust, make change easier to navigate, and raise the standard for how a team works together.” 

At a time when skill demands are changing rapidly, this can be a positive development for job seekers. While technical skills may become outdated, qualities like reliability, adaptability, and strong work ethic remain valuable, giving candidates an opportunity to stand out by showing employers what they can bring beyond their resumes.

Ade Akin covers artificial intelligence, workplace wellness, HR trends, and digital health solutions.

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