Competent Jerks, Lovable Fools, and the Formation
of Social Networks
by Tiziana Casciaro and Miguel Sousa Lobo

Below is a brief excerpt of a study published in the June 2005 issue of Harvard Business Review. Purchase a reprint of this article here.

Whom Would You Choose?

If you were faced with the need to accomplish a task at work, what sort of person would you pick to help you--someone able to get the job done or someone enjoyable to be around? Studies done on four very different organizations consistently showed that most people would choose a "lovable fool" (someone who, to varying degrees, is more likable than competent) over a "competent jerk".

low Likability > high
Competent Jerk mostly avoided	Lovable Star desperately wanted
Incompetent Jerk desperately avoided	Lovable Fool mildly wanted

Copyright © 2005 Harvard Business School Publishing Corporation. All rights reserved.

Want to learn how to boost your likability and find success in the workplace? Pick up a copy of Tim Sander's book The Likability Factor: How to Boost Your L-Factor and Achieve Your Life's Dreams right here from Assessment Leaders. Only $25.00 plus $3.99 shipping and handling.

Click here to Buy Now!