[spcoll]

Having "good character" generally means "being like me" to a lot of people. No abstract moral qualities involved.

As a person who is not particular agreeable to look at, and who can be quite introverted (maybe as a consequence), it is very noticeable that to me that "high-empathy" people are judging me on first impressions, not on my actions.

I don't think I'm a jerk. I always try to be extra nice (mostly because I want to, but also because I have to go the extra mile since I am otherwise socially challenged). Yet I just make others uncomfortable, in particular extroverts and socialites.

[Geekette]

I think even people who avoid others for superficial reasons realize that's what they're doing. I.e. They know deep down that the other person is not necessarily bad, but just don't want to engage them. Naturally, they won't openly state whatever the superficial reasons for avoidance are, thus may hide under more acceptable ones like perceived bad character.

However, in a context like an accelerator interview where you're being assessed for potential success (financially, at team and company building), I think it's safe to say superficial reasons are more likely to be ignored.

Plus, many who've been exposed to bad characters before tend to remember the difference and how unlike their covers many books can be.