I want to minimize hiring failures. You are probably referring to a psychological concept, popularized recently in books on brain research, that seeks to broaden the definition of intelligence beyond I.Q. into self-awareness, altruism, and personal motivation. One way of identifying job candidates with the traits you desire is to ask applicants to take standard personality or behavior-assessment tests.
Employers can purchase tests that screen for certain personality types or job suitability.
Experts say that while most such tests are based on solid research, it's hard to apply the results to real-world hiring decisions. Most lay people have a hard time using those things effectively. Let potential workmates interview a serious candidate or sit in on interviews, he recommends. Then take your employees' input seriously. If they don't think they can get along with the person, he or she may not be a good fit for your company.