Likability: Do You Have The Stuff?

Nancy King and I had a side conversation in my blog, last night, about the concept of likability in the hiring process.

The thinking about likability in HR/recruiting circles goes something like this — all things being equal between two candidates, I will hire a candidate based on likability and fit.

I never believe that all things are equal between two candidates, and I don’t believe in social engineering the workforce around cultural fit, style, and learning preferences; however, I like to hire nice people.

How can you hire a nice person but avoid the trappings of sexism, racism, and other illegal behaviors? Can you hire someone who isn’t the strongest candidate but is 100% nicer than best and most qualified candidate?

What’s your personal likability threshold?