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In the past, I used to look for certain traits when making my decision to hire an employee. These included:
Great credentials
Entrepreneurial spirit
Excellent technical skills
Great enthusiasm for the job at hand
Someone who could bring in their own clients
And, I can tell you unequivocably, I failed miserably in building a dream team based on the above characteristics. More often than not, I got serenity-busters. If you've been following my series, can you see the "prima donna" the "owner-wannabe" and the "ever innocent flake" in the above descriptions?
And, so here is my "David Letterman" top 10 list for traits of a dream-team employee. Here goes!
10) Cares about the way they dress
9) Gets along well with coworkers
8) Allows you, the owner, to be you- no criticisms
7) Has your back. (Will make sure you don't forget stuff, and when you do, they will handle it for you.)
6) Has hobbies, other interests, family, friends and a life outside of your business
5) Is great with people
4) Speaks eloquently (necessary in all customer service positions, not in all jobs)
3) Is in their "fun" or "self-expression" in whatever position they are in for your company
2) Is a cheerful person in general
and.....drum roll please! The #1 characteristic of a dream team employee is.......
THE ABILITY TO GROW AND CHANGE WITH THE COMPANY AND WITH THE JOB
A successful company is a constantly morphing and changing, creative entity. People who cannot deal with change will never be a dream team employee. Those who dig their heals in or freak out at a change of paint color or even a change of personnel can bust your serenity and hold your company back. Have you ever known a company that has truly stood the test of time that hasn't changed? Of course not.Stay tuned for part 8!
The #1 Characteristic of a Dream Team Employee (Part 7 of 10-part series)
February 5, 2012
