Week 1 in a three-part series about differentiation.
In knowledge work, there are typically several unspoken things teammates are expected to contribute. One such tool is brainstorming. Although not many job descriptions really include this in the “required skills and experience”, hiring crews are always trying to understand a candidate’s ability to come up with new ideas. Critical thinking, questioning and trying things are essential skills in any teammate.
The second thing most people bring is a network of people who help think through or talk out ideas. Almost every teammate brings this too, along with former co-workers, industry connections and networks, not to mention friends and family.
These are the things that can’t be automated, can’t even be ‘manufactured’ per se. Talent takes pride in that kind of value. There is comfort knowing that a person’s skills can’t be replaced by a system, or automation.
So?
Your people are your differentiator.
Your people may have a passion about work that is so genuine, so pure, that they can’t help but talk about the next project. When they are out and about, their minds wander, usually to topics in which they have real interest. People can see your employees honing ideas and jotting them down everywhere. They take ideas and experiences and apply to them to their craft. Sharpening it and honing it with little oversight and minimal micro-management
Next week:
How come there are no new ideas?
