Apparently, a new "computerized content-analysis tool" developed by researchers in Binghamton University can reliably and validly measure narcissistic and psychopathic traits in leaders of Fortune 100 companies. Surely someone with a hefty load on his or her shoulders should be the opposite.
A report describes the tool as having "a built-in dictionary of words, phrases and rules that can be used to help predict certain negative personality traits". From transcripts of interviews of prospective CEOs, the program looks for words denoting self-centeredness and different personality traits.
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The Binghamton researchers are scheduled to present more on their study at the 29th annual conference of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology in Honolulu in May.
I thought that the report on this new tool ought to have touched on how its application can extend to hiring new employees in general. Self-centered people, be it CEOs or otherwise, create a toxic work atmosphere that is counterproductive.
But then again, do we really need this tool? I have not interviewed people for job hirings but as a student of journalism, I have had the chance to interview a number of people. Spotting people with a condescending air can be done while having a conversation with them. Non-verbal cues show a lot as well.
On the other hand, this new tool can serve as a supporting arm to what can be spotted in face-to-face interviews. Journalism school has also taught me that verification is vital and should never be discarded. Thus, I have to concede that this is a useful tool. We will have to see how the attendee of the Honolulu conference think about it. Meanwhile, human resource and personnel officers will have to rely on their keen sense of perception when interviewing job candidates - especially CEOs.
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