Lighter side: Could your handbook use some more profanity?
April 10, 2009 by Sam NarisiPosted in: In This Week's E-Newsletter, Interviewing, Job screening tests, Latest News & Views
No one likes working with jerks. But here’s a company that’s taking serious measures to keep them away.
New hires at SuccessFactors, a software firm based in San Mateo, CA, are required to sign off on a list of 15 corporate principles.
Number 15: “I will not be an a–hole.”
CEO Lars Dalgaard implemented that policy after years of corporate experience taught him that jerks (as we’ll call them) “stifle performance,” he told the San Francisco Chronicle.
As for the harsh language, he said the rule would be easier to ignore without it.
What also makes the rule tough to ignore is that Dalgaard isn’t afraid to enforce it. One time, he took a group of job candidates out to lunch at a local restaurant. Those who weren’t friendly to the waitstaff weren’t brought back to continue the interview process.
Ever worked at a company that needed a policy on jerks? Do you think a rule like Dalgaard’s is good for a company or just an impractical gimmick? Let us know your opinion in the comments section.
April 17th, 2009 at 10:10 am
I love this – if anyone ever decided to sue you for termination according to this policy, their only defense is “i am not an a-hole” and our defense, and all the exhibits would have to be “Yes, you are a great BIG A-Hole!” Would make for interesting depositions…..
April 17th, 2009 at 10:51 am
I worked at an accounting firm where they kept interviewees waiting a few extra minutes. They then asked the receptionist what her perception of the prospective employee was. Did they treat her like a doormat; ask pointless questions, ask her out, complain about waiting??? Since the receptionist is the first person they meet, the company put a high value on her opinion. She told me about this a few weeks after I started. Apparently I made a good impression!!!