I worked with someone who was hired because they were likeable, even though they didn’t meet the technical bar. It was a really good decision. They improved the overall atmosphere of the office and made it a nicer place to work.
I think likeability is way too penalized these days (bias). Likeability is actually a useful trait in a team for cohesion and empathy as long as you have processes and culture to identify/manage coasting, sociopathy and toxic behavior.
