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For Airbnb’s Brian Chesky, the hiring process isn’t just about finding talent; it’s about ensuring cultural alignment. Chesky believes in hiring people who are not only world-class in their expertise but also a perfect fit for the company’s values. "If our vision is to be the best in the world at what we do, why aren't we hiring the very best in the world?" he asks.
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The Core Values Interview
Airbnb's interview process is unique. Beyond functional interviews, Chesky ensures that each candidate is vetted through a separate "core values" interview. What makes this different is that the interviewer isn't from the candidate's department, removing any potential bias. For instance, an engineer would be assessed on values by someone outside the engineering team. This ensures that cultural fit is prioritized over technical knowledge alone.
Raising the Bar, Always
Chesky insists that every new hire should raise the bar. "You’re constantly hiring world-class people," he says. This commitment to quality extends to difficult decisions as well. Chesky admits that Airbnb has said no to many great candidates simply because they didn’t align with the company’s long-term vision.
Saying No to Great Talent
While it might seem counterintuitive, Airbnb has turned down individuals with impressive resumes and skills when they didn’t align with core values. Chesky emphasizes that in the long run, it’s the cultural fit that sustains a company’s growth. Hiring based on values ensures that the team moves in the same direction, united by a common purpose.
By focusing on hiring the best and ensuring that those people share Airbnb’s values, Chesky believes in continually building a stronger, more aligned team capable of driving the company forward.
Listen to Brian Chesky:
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