Work Ethic vs. Experience: What Matters More in Hiring?
Work Ethic vs. Experience: What Matters More in Hiring?
Recently, several of my clients have shared their focus on hiring candidates who possess the right work ethic for their business. In fact, for one client, work ethic has become more important than experience when hiring for certain sales positions.
What is Work Ethic?
Work ethic is rooted in an individual’s core values and beliefs about the role work plays in their life. It encompasses the attitude, effort, and standards that a person consistently brings to their job. According to Colin Baker at Leaders, a strong work ethic involves integrity, determination, diligence, and a commitment to doing your best in any circumstance. It also means holding yourself accountable, maintaining focus, and striving for growth in whatever role you hold.
Why Prioritise Work Ethic Over Experience?
A few years ago, Forbes published an article that argued for prioritising work ethic over experience in hiring. The article highlighted several reasons for this approach: people with a strong work ethic tend to be more dependable, proactive, less complacent, and more eager to learn.
This perspective sheds light on why potential employers often ask about your work ethic during an interview. Interviews are a key opportunity for both companies and candidates to exchange information that helps them make informed decisions about the best fit for a role. While many interview questions target your skills and experience, others aim to understand who you are as a person. When employers ask about your work ethic, they’re looking for insights into how you’ll perform as an employee and team member within their organisation.
How to Communicate Your Work Ethic in an Interview
When asked to describe your work ethic, it’s your chance to highlight your motivations, interests, and work style, offering valuable insight into whether you’re a good match for the role and the company. Although it might seem like a straightforward question, your response should go beyond a basic affirmation. Depending on the company’s needs, hiring managers might seek specific qualities that reflect a strong work ethic.
Take this as an opportunity to discuss what you value in the workplace, your definition of a good work ethic, and the unique strengths you bring to the table. Before your next interview, reflect on what work ethic means to you, how you would briefly describe yours, and how you can demonstrate it through examples. This preparation will help you present a compelling case that aligns with the priorities of today’s employers.
Check out the helpful Tips Indeed shares to help you describe your work ethic during an interview, you can read more here: https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/describe-your-work-ethic
For more information on work ethic check out the full articles by Leaders and Forbes:
https://leaders.com/articles/personal-growth/work-ethic/
If you would like any help or advice with interview questions about work ethic please get in contact with Helen@jbrecruitment.co.uk
About Jackson Barnes Recruitment
Jackson Barnes Recruitment delivers international recruitment solutions within the events, media, and publishing sectors. Jackson Barnes recruits Graduate to MD level in the following positions:
- Researcher
- Conference producer
- Event Marketing
- Sales – delegate, sponsorship & Business Development
- Event Manager
- Editor
We recruit for organisations in the UK and overseas, with success in London, Dubai, New York, Singapore and Australia.