Work ethic, attitude trump education in evaluating applicants: Survey

Credible work history, culture fit also important

When it comes to evaluating job candidates, work ethic/integrity (4.45 out of five) and attitude (4.42) top the list, while education (3.95) receives the lowest average rating, according to a survey of 22 Express Employment Professionals staffing firms.

"I'm not surprised that integrity and attitude top the list," said Bob Funk, CEO of Express Employment Professionals. "Even the best education is no substitute for a good attitude. Of course, education is important, but while employers can teach their employees new skills, it's much more difficult to teach things like integrity, work ethic or attitude.”

Employers don't just want someone who has the skills and knowledge to succeed, he said. “They are also looking for people they can work with on a daily basis and trust to represent their companies well."

Top traits (out of a score of five) when hiring a candidate

Work ethic/integrity

4.52

Attitude

4.42

Credible work history

4.11

Culture fit

4.05

Job experience

3.95

References

3.84

Specific skills

3.65

Education

3.10

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