Holistic talent as the most critical component in the technology industry

1. Technology advancements have become a no-surprise, although their effects are
often more than surprising. Hard-working human brains are hidden behind those
advancements. Human brains that work at the edge of capacity, intelligence, knowledge,
creativity, inspiration, will, passion, dedication. Talented human brains owned by
talented (?) human beings. If this is a statement, we can sleep in peace. If this is a question
with no profound answer, we need to stay alert.
Talent exists, talent is sometimes hidden, talent can always be directed, talent is
undoubtedly decisive for our future. Which talent exactly do we mean? In my opinion, we
are talking about the “holistic talent”, not the “just expertise” one.
Having worked in various positions and companies in the technology industry for
more than 20 years, I have been lucky enough to have come across brilliant and
super productive people. I have also been fortunate to have met capable but totally
uncooperative people who lack the ability and the desire to share. Both experiences have
been very interesting and useful to me. Moreover, they have been excellent lessons to
learn from.
There is no doubt that talent is absolutely necessary in technology development.
We have to note, though, that in order for talent to lead to widely beneficial results,
a good character is also essential. Is this an inherited advantage? Not really. Does it
regularly accompany talent? Not at all. Most of the times, it is a skill/attitude developed,
enhanced, encouraged.
Technology can lead to the best and it can also provoke the worst. Only technology
driven by a “holistic talent” can guarantee healthy progress of the world, as we
know it.
So, what are the characteristics of a “holistically talented person” in the technology
industry? Few but crucial:
Talent supporting corporate vision not just personal ambitions
Talent consistently getting improved through a life-long learning process
Talent in equilibrium with emotional intelligence
Talent accompanied by humility and authenticity
We have to find, develop, keep and encourage such talent. Moreover, we have to praise
the right talent for the right reason. Unfortunately, we have all experienced more
cases where talent has led technology to the wrong direction (evil, arrogance and
individualism) rather than in the right one (common targets, healthy growth, social
benefit). Mentoring & coaching can significantly help in this direction.
In Greece we are far behind utilizing talent. We are just in the 50th position (among 93
countries) in the Global Talent Competitiveness index (with Switzerland keeping the 1st
position).
To make the
long story short,
the lesson is the
following: “no
talent is useful
unless able to
contribute and
distribute”.
We have a
difficult future
ahead, so we
need the best
(holistic talent)
out of each one of
us. Let’s make no
compromise!
Talent as the
most critical
component
in the
technology
industry
Marica Labrou,
General Manager,
Business Imaging &
Professional Print Group