The Job Applicant

Be honest. Don't give the answer that you think Human Resources would want to hear.

In the real world, how many of the following items would disqualify an applicant for a high-level executive position in your organization?

• Overweight
• 65 years old
• Heavy smoker
• Heavy drinker
• Regarded as a maverick
• Involved in a disastrous project noted for its loss of lives and money

If you'd disqualify an applicant for any of the above, you may be missing out on a lot of talent. This is a profile of Winston Churchill when he became prime minister of Great Britain in 1940.