'The Diary of a CEO' Presenter Steven Bartlett Reveals Just 7% of Job Candidates Answer a Key Question Correctly in His Employment Test

Steven Bartlett, known for hosting "The Diary of a CEO," places a heavy emphasis on character traits rather than technical skills when it comes to hiring new employees. His innovative approach involves a 'Culture Test' designed to test behavior over traditional skills.

A Unique Hiring Approach

During a segment on the "Hot Smart Rich" podcast, Bartlett shared insights into his hiring methodology, which relies on a 35-question examination. These questions are designed to evaluate how individuals might act in various scenarios, seeking to pinpoint those with the potential to excel.

The Crucial Question

One notable question from this test is where candidates are posed with a scenario involving a six-week deadline problem with a vital supplier. The real focus for Bartlett isn't to adjust the event or delay it but to question the underlying reason for the delay.

"It's astonishing that only about 7% choose the option to inquire further, despite it being evidently the most effective course of action," Bartlett commented.

Learning from Experience

This methodology stemmed from an incident at Bartlett's company, where a delay was initially attributed to failing equipment. A simple investment of $2,000 for new hardware resolved the issue, enhancing productivity significantly over the years.

The experience highlighted how traditional thinking can hinder progress, a notion also seen in innovations from companies like Zara and pioneers of convenient travel such as Bernard Sadow.

The Culture Imperative

Convinced of the importance of the right personnel, Bartlett developed a separate company dedicated to his "Culture Test" framework. He dedicates substantial time—half of his work month—to recruitment efforts.

His podcast, consistently ranking high in Apple's business charts, operates as part of an umbrella company, Steven.com. This entity manages various ventures, including media and investment-related platforms.

Evaluating Company Values

Another scenario Bartlett uses involves responding to a client issue during a holiday. This kind of situational test is designed to reveal candidates' alignment with the company's core values.

Balancing Culture with Diversity

While hiring for cultural fit can enhance team performance and retention rates, it can also pose risks. Critics argue this approach might lead to a lack of diversity if it favors homogeneity over varied perspectives. Studies show that diverse teams often achieve greater success than those lacking variety.