The key to an ideal workplace, in one hyphenated word, is this: self-awareness.
–Neil Blumenthal
How would you rate yourself when it comes to being self-aware? It’s more than knowing your strengths and weaknesses; it also includes understanding how others perceive you, how you relate to others, and how motivated you are when it comes to having a commitment for continual learning.
Claire Hughes Johnson, a former google VP, invested many hours weekly interviewing job candidates. To narrow down the field, she said the #1 skill she looked for was self-awareness. She felt experience could be acquired and skills learned, but being self-aware meant the person knew not only about their development opportunities, but also about their work preferences, and building relationships with colleagues.
Johnson suggests listening for 2 things when interviewing:
She also asks interviewees how colleagues would describe them and probes about the feedback they’ve received. This is followed up with asking about the actions they’ve taken for improvement to see if they truly listened and processed the feedback.
Johnson’s suggestions for building self-awareness (excerpts):
- Understand your values
- Identify your work style
- Analyze your skills and capabilities
More on being self-aware:
The Harvard Business Review reports that research found that 95% of people believe they are self-aware, yet the true number is in the 10 to 15% range. They also reported that lacking in self-awareness creates workplace frustrations, can reduce success rates by 50%, and tends to increase stress, decrease motivation, and results in higher turnover rates.
Increasing your level of self-awareness will serve you well by positioning you to speak confidently about your strengths, magic dust, and development opportunities. It will also reduce stress, increase motivation, and improve interactions and relationships with others.
How will ensure you are not part of the 95% that believe they are self-aware, but in actuality are not?
Sincerely,
Mike and Jan
Self-awareness is value-free. It isn’t scary.
It doesn’t imply that you will subject yourself to needless pain.
–Deepak Chopra
About PeopleTek Coaching
Peopletek Coaching is dedicated to empowering emerging leaders by providing comprehensive leadership development programs and coaching services. With a mission to foster a culture of leadership, Peopletek helps individuals unlock their full potential and transform into effective and inspiring leaders. Drawing from their extensive experience and expertise, Peopletek’s team of professionals offers tailored coaching, workshops, and assessments designed to meet the unique needs of emerging leaders. By cultivating essential skills, enhancing self-awareness, and promoting continuous growth, Peopletek Coaching paves the way for the next generation of successful and influential leaders. Learn more about our programs and services specifically tailored for emerging leaders.