My experience belies that assertion quite handily. I don't mean to imply that I think that those with degrees are inherently unreliable, or anything even remotely similar.

I won't get into my thoughts on grade inflation, diploma factories, etc, but your example showed my point to be true -- the guy didn't leave. Now, he didn't produce anything of value, but he didn't cut and run.

What he did do, was over promise and under deliver, which I already commented on. Personality is just as important as skill when it comes to a job -- is the person going to work towards the goals of the project? How do they handle setbacks? Do they communicate when they're running into problems and/or ask for help?

This is why it's better to get someone who admits to their failings, and is willing to ask for help. The person who thinks they know everything will assume that there's nothing more to learn, and will make no attempt at improving.

There was a question on Slashdot yesterday, with someone complaining about Behavioural interviews during job applications. They're important, be it interviews, or checking references, etc. (and for references, there are certain questions you can't ask, so start with the easiest one -- would you hire this person back?)

In reply to Re^3: Suggestions for radical career change? by jhourcle
in thread Suggestions for radical career change? by bigmacbear

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