The first thing that I look for is people who have a high emotional need to deliver results. It might sound simple. But there are people who are incredibly passionate about what they do – for example, if you’re a scientist, and you’re working on a particular drug, and your drug does not get approved by the FDA in the first round of approval, are you sleeping at night? And if you’re not sleeping at night, we’re hiring you. Or, if you missed your profit target for the year and you did not deliver your commitment to the company, do you have an emotional reaction to that, or not?
~ Joseph Jimenez, CEO Novartis
Source: NY York Times – “Corner Office”. Image Source: a3.twimg.com
Sounds like he’s looking for competitive people who like to win, regardless of the endeavor. People who will never quit and won’t give up. I see too few of these people, and too many who tolerate and are OK with mediocrity.
I call it taking things personally. I want people to be personally invested (emotionally not financially) in the work they are doing. Passionate people will always deliver the best results.