Every hiring manager hopes to accurately predict the future performance of a job candidate, a difficult project at best. Years of research have yielded a number of successful methods. Personality testing appears to be one of the most effective predictors. One trait in particular stands out. Conscientiousness has been shown to be the most valid and reliable predictor of general job performance.

Conscientiousness is one of the "Big Five" personality factors. The five-factor model is a theoretical model of personality comprised of conscientiousness, agreeableness, extroversion, openness to experience, and neuroticism. According to the model, most personality attributes fit within one of the five factors.

Employees high on conscientiousness tend to be hardworking, responsible, organized, dependable, achievement oriented, and persistent. Research on conscientiousness has found positive correlations with job satisfaction and work performance, and negative correlations with job absence and job turnover. These effects are consistent for all occupations and across different cultures.

EASI·Consult is currently in the process of developing and validating their Work Styles PredictorTM, which is being designed to measure important predictors of job success, including conscientiousness. Based on test results, suggested structured interview questions will be generated to help the hiring manager follow up for more details. The system will be administered online and fully automated. Stay tuned for further developments!