Don’t let your gift take you where your character can’t keep you

Too often in our quest for the best "unicorn" talents, we experience the reality of people who are highly talented but they can no longer remain because the character part was not strong enough (or not developed enough) to sustain their success.

In my many encounters of interviewing candidates or mentoring sessions, I find that when a person has strong and in-demand talents, usually opportunities are just around the corner. They don’t need to make much effort and would easily get called by the recruiters. However, be it opportunity or success, if one has no, or underdeveloped character, it will be a short mere moment of fame.

What is important here?

A person's character is molded by many elements including upbringing, situations, etc. A good character will enable you to say no when you need to, believing what is true and noble. Have the courage to learn, unlearn and grow in maturity. After all, no one is perfect. There is nothing wrong in failing as long as you learn to be better. Your character is about you, inside you. You will find strength in what you truly believe and what you value. Then you will live with purpose and helping others.

As an experienced talent acquisition professional, let us be mindful that we should not ignore talent for the sake of character. However, all said, the character is more important to sustain a person’s talent.

…After all, where we are at today was also due to another person’s faith in our talents and character.

#icanbebetter