In IBM’s report from interviewing over 1700 CEOs around the world three main themes emerged for the most successful organizations. At the highest level, none are news to us. But going deeper there are some critical nuggets worth exploring. I’m focusing on “Build future-proof employees.”
Because emerging capabilities are hard to define, hiring and equipping employees with the skills to close the gap becomes a guessing game. CEOs look for people who are collaborative, communicative, creative and flexible. They create an environment where these traits develop more naturally through:
• Create unconventional teams.Intentionally mix specialties and expertise
• Broaden the range of situations and experiences that employees are exposed to in their normal work. Incorporate external influences — like customers and partners — wherever possible.
• Encourage employees to develop a diverse and extensive network of contacts as both potential
collaborators and prospective customers.
How do you demonstrate that you are collaborative, communicative, creative and flexible? What do you do as an individual to become ‘future proof?”