How to Deal with Job Candidates with a Chip on the Shoulder
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A manager writes:
I just interviewed a candidate who has a chip on his shoulder. Is that good or bad?
Ah, job candidates with a chip on the shoulder. Let’s call this person Chip.
In sports, Chip could be extolled. The reasoning goes: Chip has something to prove. As a result, he’ll work harder and smarter because he wants to achieve and prove everyone wrong.
While this can happen, I’d avoid Chip altogether.
If you look at the definition, "chip on the shoulder" means that you feel you've been wronged and therefore you can't let it go. In other words, Chip blames others for his situation.
I wouldn’t want to hire someone who blames others. I’d rather hire the anti-Chip. That is, he accepts his role in his situation, takes action, and gets the results he wants.
Keep those blamers away from your team.
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