In any organization, there will always be employees who will stand out. Even in a group of individuals with similar credentials, a select few will possess distinctive qualities and exceptional abilities that will distinguish them from their peers.
These are the “HiPos” or high-potential employees. They are the key players who exhibit the aptitude, skill, and commitment not only to achieve personal career goals but more importantly, drive the organization towards success.
High-potential employees are assets. They are supremely talented, and the work they do brings significant value to the company. Consequently, it is an imperative for business leaders to put their best efforts into identifying and engaging exceptional employees within their organization.
While assessing an employee’s potential can be tricky, there are certain indicators that can help managers identify employees who can be deemed as high-potential. Here’s a list of traits that can help you recognize the top talents in your company.
They ask questions
With the company’s growth and success in mind, high-potential employees always ask relevant questions. They’re not worried about appearing too inquisitive because they pair their curiosity with a strong desire to perform and deliver results.
They take initiative
High-potential employees don’t sit around waiting for tasks to be assigned to them. Instead, they are constantly brewing up new ideas and working on projects.
They are eager to assume more responsibility and take on more work as they see these as opportunities to improve their skills and contribute more to the company’s growth.
They work well independently
Micromanaging is absolutely unnecessary, as you can always expect a high-potential employee to deliver the best outputs with minimal supervision. HiPos are reliable. They get things done without being constantly told do so.
They accept leadership opportunities
High-potential employees don’t shy away from leadership opportunities. In fact, they are thrilled to assume more leadership roles because they want to practice and develop their skills.
HiPos possess innate leadership capabilities. Even without being given the role of leader, their leadership skills come out naturally.
They help co-workers
Despite their unwavering drive to achieve their personal career goals, high-potential employees don’t neglect their co-workers. They often extend a helping hand to their colleagues because they are aware that success is a result of the collective efforts of everyone in the organization.
Additionally, HiPos recognize the value of teamwork and collaboration. They always have the best interests of the company in mind and understand that they need to help their co-workers to get more things done.
They listen to feedback
High-potential employees are committed to improve. They give prime importance to feedback – both good and bad.
They take both praise and criticism graciously, but they don’t just stop there. They make sure to take action by utilizing the feedback they receive as guideposts in refining their skills.
They embrace the company’s values
Exceptional skill and superior performance are not the only assets of high-potential employees. Their work attitude and behavior reflect the values and culture of the company. They fully embrace the company’s mission and vision, which brings more meaning to the work they do.
They accept criticisms
High-potential employees recognize their weaknesses and are not anxious to receive criticisms from superiors and colleagues. They graciously accept their mistakes because they see these as valuable learning opportunities.
And yes, HiPos, like everyone else, make mistakes. What makes them different is that they don’t get easily discouraged by their shortcomings and don’t let these mistakes derail the success of the company.
They thrive in high-pressure situations
High-potential employees don’t bail out when the going gets tough. In fact, when things get heated, expect your HiPos to be on top of the situation.
They are quick thinkers. When faced with a difficult problem, they can provide solutions without losing their composure. While most employees dread high-pressure situations, HiPos thrive when they are given challenges.
They reinforce positive work culture and environment
Even when their plates are full, expect high-potential employees to always be in a noticeably positive disposition. Sure, they also have their fair share of bad days, but HiPos never bring negativity to the workplace because they know how to manage their stress well.
Moreover, HiPos understand the importance of maintaining a positive culture and environment at work. They do the best they can to share only the positive while they deal with negative or stressful situations on their own.
They understand the importance of collaboration
High-potential employees are not adamant about sharing the spotlight with someone else. In fact, they greatly value collaboration because they understand that more work can be accomplished when they put their heads together with their colleagues.
Additionally, HiPos recognize that their coworkers have something valuable to bring to the table. When someone else proposes a better idea, they’ll surely support their colleague.
They deliver solid results
One of the most distinctive characteristics of high-potential employees is their ability to deliver constant and solid results. They outperform their peers even when they’re given more complex and challenging tasks.
Their level of performance is evidently superior, but they achieve this without stepping on someone’s toes. In sum, HiPos pair their high performance with credibility helping them to build trust and confidence among their superiors and colleagues.
They go the extra mile
High-potentials are highly driven to excel and succeed. They are relentless in their pursuit to achieve their goals and never settle for mediocrity.
HiPos are always willing to go the extra mile if it means bringing them a step closer towards their goals. Furthermore, they understand that to achieve success, they must make some personal sacrifices to move forward in their careers.
They exude confidence
High-potential employees are confident in their capabilities. They exude confidence without being arrogant or condescending. Thus, they easily earn the trust and respect of others.
They commit to the company’s goals
The company’s success is the top priority of high-potential employees. Even with career goals of their own, HiPos recognize that the company’s growth should always come first.
They’re as committed to the company’s goals as with their career objectives and never prioritize personal gain over the welfare of their organization.
Recruitment firms can all agree that high-potential employees are assets to any organization. HiPos possess superior skills and exemplary characteristics that allow them to outperform their peers and deliver the best results.
With effective management and appropriate training, HiPos can truly propel a company towards growth and success.
