“Don’t let what you don’t know scare you, because it can become your greatest asset. And if you do things without knowing how they have always been done, you’re guaranteed to do them differently. ~ Sara Blakely, Founder & CEO of Spanx
I’ve been blessed to have a great number of interactions with a wide array of leaders. One of the key takeaways that I’m always looking for in leaders, is whether or not I believe they “get it”. Since “gets it” is a subjective observation, there is no universal agreement on what“gets it” actually is or whether someone has it. Thus; one needs to define “gets it” while quickly and accurately figuring out how to recognize it.
Language, I believe is a key to observing the “gets it” quality, followed by an ability to actually create new, positive outcomes associated with “getting it” and then surrounding yourself with others who also “get it”. Without all three of these attributes, new ideas simply die on the vine of “could-have-been”.
First; the language a leader uses demonstrates a wide-range of information about them to exceptional listeners. When “gets it” leaders are able to look at problems and see high potential solutions while most leaders don’t even see a problem, this is a great piece of information that helps determine if they’re a “gets it” leader. If you listen carefully, the language they use will contain more possibilities than realities. Further, “gets it” leaders will often volunteer their own shortcomings in the area of the potential new possibilities. Thus, demonstrating they’re often lifelong learners with their share of past failures.
Second; “gets it” leaders have the ability to visualize solutions that currently do not exist, see them actually implemented and are able to observe their impact being realized. They’re not focused on the numerous reasons why something won’t work; rather, they ask many questions on how to get new initiatives to work. Thus; they are humble, but highly inquisitive and passionately engaged.
Third; “gets it” leaders are not intimidated by the high odds of failure (given, they are doing something that others have said, “can’t be done”). They fully comprehend, the reasons something doesn’t exist, are because others have seen it as too difficult to visualize and actually get implemented. This is where the Laws of Attraction play out. The only ones willing to pursue the creation of “that which does not exist” are other “gets it” leaders. Thus; “gets it” leaders attract and surround themselves with other “gets it” leaders. This type of rare, top talent is needed to get “that which can’t be done … done!
So … how do you objectively know if you “get it”? Again, there is no definitive, objective answer. Nonetheless, you know it when you see it and others who “get it” will find you.
Who changes the world? I believe it’s almost exclusively the Top-7%. They are the only ones with the Talent Portfolios and social consciences needed to actually implement significant positive social impact. If you believe you’re one of these executives, we’d love to explore possible opportunities.
Get Making A Difference! ~ JR
