Why Mindset Matters More Than Talent
You may have heard the saying, an organization is only as strong as its people (or some version of this saying). Truer words have never been spoken, now more than ever. Employees are the essence of a company – they drive the vision of the company, the revenue and the internal and external relationships. That is why even having just one dud on a team can spell trouble. That dud could be the most talented individually, but if they lack the traits to be a successful employee, they can jeopardize productivity, a healthy work environment, and customer experience.
What makes a good employee and team member?
Every business owner overseeing a team of staff can attest to the experience that talent isn’t everything. In our blog post, How to Win at Customer Service and Protect Your Reputation, we wrote that “Every service is replaceable, and if your clients have to deal with a poor attitude, ghosting, constant tardiness, excuses and missed deadlines, they will eventually look elsewhere.” The same applies for employees who have a poor attitude, lack dedication, patience, and the grit to excel in their roles.
To be clear, a good employee isn’t a “yes” person who falls in line under management. For example, exuding a poor attitude isn’t the same as speaking up about things that could be improved and helping to come up with solutions to make things better. According to leaders, the best employees have the following traits in common.
Grit
The ability to persist through challenges and the resiliency to keep striving. They don’t pass the buck when things get difficult.
Resourcefulness
When faced with challenges, they are self-motivated to find a solution. They are problem solvers, willing to look at things from different angles and come up with solutions.
Positive, respectful and enjoyable to be around
They have positive energy, are supportive of their teammates, show empathy and have a good attitude. Instead of constant complaining, they boost morale.
Continuous learning
They are open to receiving feedback to grow their potential. They are naturally curious with an eagerness to develop their knowledge and skill set.
Growth mindset
They believe that abilities, experience and knowledge can be developed. They understand that challenges are just growth opportunities.
The organization is only as strong as its people. It’s the organization’s responsibility to support their employees to their utmost potential, and it’s the employee’s responsibility to strive and grow individually and as a teammate. The investment must be mutual.
If you are an employer, when you find an employee who exhibits these traits, invest in them. Build them up and support them in their interests and talents. Help create an environment in which they can flourish.
And if you are an employee, freelancer, contractor or job seeker looking to achieve success in your career, develop these traits for success. Start by practising a growth mindset to help drive the other attributes. Look at challenges as opportunities for growth that will only help you gain more skills, confidence, and new perspectives to help you grow and thrive.