Five Traits of Difference Makers: The Need for Speed

What’s Inside

Every company wants to attract and keep the difference makers, the people who are worth their weight in gold. But how do you identify those you already have and find more of them? This article goes beyond traditional HR approaches to examine five intangible qualities that identify those who can make a difference in your organization.

This article explains the trait of Speed: The ability to climb steep learning curves quickly, to deliver projects related to the new knowledge acquired and then to replicate that experience.

Key Points

People with speed are calculated risk takers with the courage to forge new ground as well as the confidence to be unafraid of the consequences.

To find the difference makers with Speed, look for those who are quick to understand new concepts, are attentive to professional development opportunities, and apply new tools and technology ahead of their peers.

The Speed superpower is organization. It’s remarkable how much more quickly someone can learn and apply new knowledge in an environment where actions are scheduled, planned and uncluttered.

Why it Matters

Difference makers are often missed through standard HR and development processes. Sometimes they hide in plain sight. In a time of high turnover, leaders need to be prepared to attract and retain employees who display Speed.