Professional networks like LinkedIn are invaluable for recruiters evaluating candidates' education and work history. But can they also provide clues about personality? A forthcoming Tilburg University study, "Personality Perception Based on LinkedIn Profiles," reveals that extroversion and self-presentation can be accurately inferred, while traits like conscientiousness, creativity, agreeableness, or emotional stability remain elusive.
The researchers tasked groups of raters with assessing the personalities of 275 individuals based solely on their LinkedIn profiles, then cross-referenced these judgments against validated personality tests completed by the profile owners. Niels van de Ven, from Tilburg University, explains: "We found that LinkedIn profiles allow for reasonably accurate estimates of extroversion and self-presentation skills. Crucially, however, they do not reliably predict traits such as precision, creativity, agreeableness, or emotional stability."
Co-author Alec Serlie from GITP adds: "We knew Facebook profiles could signal personality through social interactions, but LinkedIn users are more deliberate. This study confirms that certain traits still 'leak' through, offering recruiters valuable—but limited—insights."
