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Career Quote by Sam Donaldson

“I'd rather work with someone who's good at their job but doesn't like me, than someone who likes me but is a ninny.” quote by Sam Donaldson
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“I'd rather work with someone who's good at their job but doesn't like me, than someone who likes me but is a ninny.”

Sam Donaldson

About This Quote

Source Interview: TV News Segment, 1998

Work with competent but unfriendly people is preferable to incompetent but friendly ones.

In simple terms: Competence outweighs personal likability.

Key Takeaway

Choose skill over friendship in professional settings.

Themes

leadership competence relationships workplace dynamics trust

Mood

pragmatic reflective

Type

advice workplace

When to use this quote

  • hiring decisions
  • project collaborations
  • manager-employee interactions
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

performance emotional intelligence team cohesion

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it better to be liked or to be effective?
  • How can teams balance competence and morale?
A Different Perspective

Friendliness can mask lack of ability, leading to poor outcomes.

4.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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