Former Netflix Chief Talent Officer's Unique 'Reception Test' for Hiring Disaster-Avoiding Employees
In her role as Chief Talent Officer at Netflix, Jessica Neal introduced an unconventional yet highly effective hiring strategy. She tasked her receptionist with a simple yet insightful task: "Tell me who's a jerk to you."
This seemingly harsh approach, as Neal admits, became a cornerstone of Netflix's hiring process and her leadership development. Early in her career, she often overlooked subtle red flags in candidates, focusing on their intelligence and communication skills. However, she soon realized that hiring "brilliant but difficult" individuals could lead to significant issues within the team.
The 'Reception Test'
The interview room is a well-rehearsed affair, but the lobby tells a different story. Receptionists, often overlooked, provide a unique perspective on candidates' behavior. Neal's simple yet insightful question, "How'd they treat you?" after each interview, revealed a lot about the candidates' true characters. From impatience to rudeness, these small acts of behavior were telling.
One candidate, for instance, snapped when their visitor badge took too long to print, while another sighed loudly about parking. These seemingly minor incidents showcased a lack of self-awareness and empathy, traits that could lead to disastrous hires.
The Quiet Candidates
Conversely, candidates who took a moment to inquire about the receptionist's day or thanked her on their way out demonstrated self-awareness and empathy. These individuals tended to be more considerate and mindful of others' feelings, traits that were beneficial to the team dynamic.
The True Test: Self-Awareness
Neal's revelation was that the 'reception test' was not just about catching rude individuals but about gauging self-awareness. Candidates who failed this test often lacked an understanding of how their words and actions impacted others. They didn't recognize the power dynamics at play, which could lead to a toxic work environment.
The Impact of Self-Awareness
Self-aware individuals, on the other hand, are attuned to their impact on others. They adjust their behavior accordingly and treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position. This kind of self-awareness fosters a safe and honest work environment, which is essential for building trust and loyalty within a team.
The Best Leaders Understand Their Blind Spots
Neal emphasizes the importance of leaders being self-aware, understanding their strengths and blind spots. They should be able to sense when they're coming across too strongly or when someone feels overlooked. Owning up to mistakes and demonstrating empathy are key traits of successful leaders.
Advice for Job Seekers
Neal's advice to job seekers is to remember that every interaction during the hiring process is a part of the interview. She highlights three crucial aspects:
- Be fully present and engaged, avoiding distractions like phone scrolling.
- Acknowledge everyone, from the receptionist to the hiring manager, with a simple hello or thank you.
- Maintain kindness, especially when faced with stress or inconvenience, as this reveals how you handle challenges.
The Bottom Line
In the end, it's the small moments that reveal the most about a candidate's character. Employers want to know how you make others feel and how you handle yourself in various situations. By embracing self-awareness and empathy, job seekers can increase their chances of landing their dream job and becoming valuable team members.
