Motivational Compatibility Assessment

Introduction: Beyond Competencies

A fundamental aspect of a successful interview, which goes beyond validating experience and competencies, is to identify whether the candidate will be able to adapt to the actual conditions of the role and the culture of the company.

This assessment is known as "motivational compatibility". Its objective is to determine the degree of personal satisfaction that the employee will find in the position and its environment.

What is Motivational Compatibility?

Motivational compatibility exists when the day-to-day elements of the job are consistent with the environment that provides satisfaction to the individual.

These elements are not only the tasks and responsibilities, but also the way the company operates, the workplace (physical or remote), the work climate and even the values of the organization.

It is important to note that this assessment is not related to whether the candidate has the experience or the technical skills (the "know-how").

It is about evaluating their affinity with the aspects surrounding the work environment.

Case Study: Rosa vs. Paula (The Coordinator's Dilemma)

Let's imagine a selection scenario for the position of "Events Coordinator". We have two finalists, Rosa and Paula.

After evaluating them, we conclude that they both perfectly fulfill the experience and competencies required to execute the position.

However, when we inquired about their motivational compatibility, we found key differences:

Rosa's Motivational Profile: She likes to receive recognition for her work. She prefers activities that involve routine and a high level of detail.

She enjoys working independently and values being in the office more than remote work.

Paula's Motivational Profile: She values the flexibility of remote work. She likes to travel, prefers an informal team environment, enjoys a high level of interaction with clients, and seeks opportunities to be creative.

Conclusion: The Impact on Satisfaction and Retention

Both candidates, Rosa and Paula, could probably do the job well.

However, their long-term satisfaction level will depend entirely on the actual conditions of the position.

If the Events Coordinator position in this company involves constant travel and demands high creativity (aligned with Paula), Rosa could quickly become demotivated.

Conversely, if the role is mostly administrative, office-based and deta