There’s a good chance somewhere in the midst of a job search you’ve come across a job listing specifically scouting for Top Talent. Considering the prevalence of its use, it’s easy to infer companies prefer to hire Top Talent, but what does this phrase mean from the perspective of a job seeker?
Rather than hazard a guess, it’s useful to have a guideline of what Top Talent can mean for employers and recruiters. In many cases, the definition of Top Talent can differ slightly from employer to employer. These differences often relate to the needs, culture and leadership of the organization. Rather than approaching a potential hire from a cookie-cutter approach, the phrase Top Talent can elevate a listing into an embodiment of distinct and valuable qualities an individual could bring to an organization.
Qualities of Top Talent
- Creative
- Curious
- Analytical
- Resourceful
- Resilient
- Productive
- Competitive
- Inclusive
- Follow-through
- Reliable
The New Status Quo
Today, most industries operate as leanly as possible. This means people within the organization know they will have to do more with less and find creative solutions for resource constraints. In this kind of a situation, a Top Talent individual is at the forefront leading this charge by working to increase productivity through resourceful use of the company’s resources of money, expertise, skills and support. The Top Talent is often, yet not always, the person leading others by example not only through quality work skills but also the willingness to explore new things, ask questions, and challenge the status quo. Top Talent elevates the required competencies and skills to the next level of industriousness.
Trying to Define the Undefinable
It stands to reason someone qualifying as Top Talent also possesses considerable leadership skills. While it’s possible to learn and apply elements of good leadership, there is another quality critical to the success of Top Talent and leaders everywhere called grit. This is a word that brings to mind thoughts of iconic people like John Wayne or soldiers heading into battle. It’s the picture of an individual who is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve one’s ultimate goals through courageous persistence. Interestingly, research and observation into Top Talent and leaders show grit is one of the most important indicators of success. Individuals who are willing and able to tap into these grit reserves are more likely to overcome stress and accept failure as a natural part of the learning process.
Having what it takes
One of the most exciting things about the newest generations of leaders is seeing how they will continue to reassess and reshape what evolving companies will need to remain knowledgeable, yet open, to the exploration of new ways of doing things. With this in mind, the definition of Top Talent will also continue to change as companies in an increasingly technology-centric world look to make the most of all resources.
As a top Kansas City recruiting firm since 1988, Austin Nichols Technical Search has served clients in a variety of fields. Austin Nichols specializes in direct hire and contract recruiting for manufacturing, construction, engineering, and technical positions.
