[ibimage==51795==Original==none==self==null]Our research shows that 92% of company executives believe that culture skills are as important or more important than technical know-how. These are the six characteristics that entrepreneurial leaders value most.
- Desire to learn
- Passion: for the mission and culture
- Scrappiness and grit
- Ability to thrive amidst ambiguity
- Excellence at collaboration
- Willingness to put the company before oneself
Your professional background, education, and technical savvy are key in positioning you for a new opportunity. Still, other non-work experiences may help paint relevant and compelling pictures to your interviewers about your “softer skills” and the kind of contributor you’ll be. The trick is not to let these speak for themselves.
We have the chance to learn and grow with each endeavor and encounter—if we’re tuned-in enough to pay attention. The ability to articulate this growth speaks volumes about you as a learner. Reflect on your own interests and experiences so that you can effectively highlight your passions to showcase your culture skills and transferable skills on your résumé and in the interview:
The Athlete
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Photo credit: Mobilus In Mobili via Flickr cc
You understand that teamwork can make the dream work. Highlight your strong collaboration skills, and willingness to put the success of the team—or company—over personal glory. Your competitive nature demonstrates persistence and determination, which will help a growing company succeed.
The Artist
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Photo credit: Brian Auer via Flickr cc
Artists live and breathe their passions, infusing their work with energy and emotion. Still, they’re rarely satisfied with their work—always striving for self-improvement. If you’ve learned to play the guitar or have refined your painting techniques over years of practice, your growth as an artist demonstrates dedication to learning and a grit to improve.
The Traveler
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Photo credit: Shai Barzilay via Flickr cc
If you’ve lived or worked abroad and are committed to exploring new places and spaces, leverage your ability to thrive amidst ambiguity as a willingness to take risks and confidence in navigating the unknown. Your interest in people and cultures highlights your innate curiosity and means that you can probably navigate complex social dynamics, too.
The Activist
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Photo credit: Laurel L. Russwurm via Flickr cc
Whether you’re an environmentalist or social activist, you’re a mover and shaker who inspires action in others. You are a passionate person who puts your cause and integrity above all else. Any company that aligns with your values would be lucky to have you as a leader and evangelist.
This piece was written by Christine Zimmerman and originally appeared on Startup Institute’s blog, The Whiteboard.
Application deadline for Startup Institute's Fall class in Chicago is September 28th. Classes run from October 19th to December 17th.
