Who are the real workplace risks? 5 types to look out for

You know from experience that hiring certain types of people are a bigger risk than others.

And you’re not wrong.

According to Hogan Assessment Systems, there are six types of personalities that are more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior in the workplace.

Hogan’s research was geared towards weeding out potential safety risks (employees who handle hazardous materials, work at heights, etc.). But these personality traits are worrisome for any type of profession or company.

Here are the six types of people that can cause the biggest headaches:

1. Defiant

These employees don’t always follow rules to the letter or show respect for authority.

They need reminders about the consequences for skirting rules. If they do take shortcuts, discipline them according to your company’s guidelines.

2. Irritable

On good days, these people are great. But if something gets under their skin, they can get reckless and make mistakes.

One idea: Some healthcare insurance providers offer stress-management classes at no charge to employees.

HR can check on this option.

3. Easily distracted

These folks have trouble focusing on one thing at a time. They may need more handholding at first, plus ongoing instruction or training, than others folks do.

4. Reckless

They’re the typical “It won’t happen to me” employees. And they’re the type that may try a different way of solving a problem without checking with you or another supervisor first.

That kind of creativity can be great – or disastrous, depending on the staffer’s intelligence.

When you see warning signs, remind them to stick with the procedures. Let them know if they think they have a better idea for handling a task, talk with you first.

(For safety violators, graphic videos that recreate injuries on the job can be a good way to scare them straight.)

5. Arrogant

The essence of arrogance is overestimating one’s abilities.

Arrogant types may need reminders that the rules apply to everyone, including them.