While much research has been done into person-job fit and personality, humans are complex and no one tool is comprehensive enough to determine whether a person is suitable for a particular role. While many of the tools and processes outlined in this chapter are helpful, they are at best descriptive. While it is considered that personality is relatively stable, we are a combination of our moods, contexts and the people around us, as well as our internal functioning. As humans we have a choice in our behaviours and frequently adapt through the ‘reading’ of others’ behaviour. Contexts will affect real-time behaviour and behaviour is not always stable. While behaviour can be considered largely predictable, it is subject to the free will of the individual. As such, these frameworks and theories are tools and suggestions that can only offer insight and description, not a prescription of what a person would do at all times. Notwithstanding these limitations, in the world of work where relationships matter, even an imperfect understanding can be argued to be better than none at all.
Reflection question
Can you think of a time when you have behaved differently than you would have liked to or wished to?
Can you think of what contextual factors may have influenced this?