Mismatch
American research reveals that 46% of new employees prove unsuitable within their first eighteen months. The striking finding: nearly 90% fail due to attitude misalignment rather than skill gaps.
Job postings frequently contain corporate language — carefully selected words reflecting position requirements and necessary candidate competencies. When applicants respond, they similarly use formal language, describing accomplishments and technical abilities.
Great
Jim Collins examines in "Good to Great" why certain companies substantially outperform competitors. His research identifies seven success factors, with leadership type as primary. Companies led by what Collins terms "Level 5 leaders" demonstrate markedly superior stock performance and growth. These leaders possess personal strength, authenticity, humility, self-awareness regarding limitations, and subordinate personal gain to organizational benefit.
The second factor is "first who, then what." Successful leaders distinguish themselves by assembling people with Level 5 leadership potential before determining strategy. Collins demonstrates that appropriate personnel placement resolves management problems faster through underlying behavior rather than managerial expertise. Fundamentally, attitude supersedes knowledge.
Attitude
With dedication and proper support, individuals can master content-specific knowledge relatively quickly. Attitude differs fundamentally. Attitude is integrated behavior determining how someone reacts or acts, and unlike habits, includes intentional effects. Attitude develops through years of learning, upbringing, and experience. Identity stems from attitude, not knowledge — making education, gender, age, or background secondary.
Hire for attitude, train for skills!
Recommended reading: "Hiring for Attitude" by Mark Murphy.