What do I look for in potential colleagues?

Common Sense, Personality and Mutual Chemistry: More Important than Experience

Practical interviews at Mixit s.r.o.

Common Sense

Sure, I can teach online advertising and marketing data interpretation, but I can't teach common sense. Either it's there or it's not. When someone overcomplicates simple tasks or ignores the obvious solutions, working with them becomes a challenge. Common sense is a quality that I try to find in potential colleagues during the practical part of the interview.

Chemistry

Another thing that you can't force is chemistry. In my experience, when there's great chemistry among colleagues, any problem can be tackled. On the flip side, without it, even minor issues seem insurmountable. If someone in the team disrespects others, or is generally toxic, it needs to be addressed. It's vital to identify these traits during the hiring process or probationary period.

Motivation

It's tough to spark internal motivation in someone if they don't have it within themselves. I can inspire and energize someone temporarily, but I can't sustain that for them. Working with someone who always needs a push is exhausting. This trait is often hidden during the hiring process because many people can fake determination and motivation. The truth usually comes out in the first few weeks of working together.

So, what do I look for in potential colleagues? Good chemistry, common sense, and internal motivation. It's simple.