In a world increasingly dominated by technology and automation, it might seem that human skills are becoming less valuable. However, William Vanderbloemen's book "Be the Unicorn" argues quite the opposite. This insightful work reveals that in today's diverse and competitive workforce, it's the individuals with exceptional soft skills who truly stand out and succeed. These rare individuals, whom Vanderbloemen dubs "Unicorns," possess a unique set of abilities that make them invaluable in any organization.
Vanderbloemen, a seasoned talent-spotting expert, has interviewed over 30,000 candidates throughout his career. Through this extensive experience, he has identified twelve teachable soft skills that set these Unicorns apart. In "Be the Unicorn," he shares six of these pivotal skills, providing readers with a roadmap to becoming one of these highly sought-after individuals.
The Power of Soft Skills in the Modern Workplace
Picture a scenario where a robot and a human are competing for the same job. The robot, programmed to perfection, can perform complex calculations and process vast amounts of data in seconds. The human, on the other hand, brings to the table experiences of teamwork, empathy, and genuine connections forged through shared experiences and collaborative projects.
In this hypothetical situation, it's the human who walks away with the job offer. Why? Because even in our technologically advanced world, it's the individuals with superior soft skills who truly shine. These skills are the key to standing out in a crowded and diverse workforce, making you the rare "Unicorn" that everyone is searching for.
The Six Essential Skills of a Unicorn
1. Be Quick: The Art of Swift Decision-Making
In today's fast-paced world, the ability to act quickly can make all the difference between success and missed opportunities. Take Blake Mycoskie, the founder of EZ Laundry, Mycoskie Media, and Toms Shoes, as an example. Mycoskie's success stems from his ability to seize opportunities without hesitation.
Being quick doesn't mean being reckless. It's about making decisive calls promptly, whether that means jumping on board with an opportunity or turning it down. This skill is crucial because in the modern business landscape, slow responses often translate to lost revenue and missed chances.
However, many people struggle with quick decision-making. Our brains are naturally wired to be cautious and avoid risks, which can lead to overthinking and inaction. But in today's world, this hesitation can be detrimental.
To cultivate this skill:
- Stay connected: Ensure you're reachable through at least one channel and set up auto-responders when you're unavailable.
- Overcome fear: Stop chasing perfection. Recognize that most decisions aren't life-altering and can be adjusted if needed.
- Act with confidence: Make decisions swiftly and confidently, understanding that bold action often leads to greater rewards.
2. Be Adaptable: Thriving in a Changing World
Adaptability is a crucial skill in our ever-changing world. Consider the story of Ursula Burns, who rose to become the CEO of Xerox not by following a rigid career plan, but by being open to opportunities and learning on the go.
The importance of adaptability was highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses that quickly pivoted their operations and services fared much better than those stuck in their old ways. This principle applies not just to large-scale strategic moves but also to day-to-day operations.
In an agile organization:
- Teams are encouraged to question established methods
- Processes are continuously streamlined
- New ideas are welcomed
Diversity in teams is also crucial for adaptability, as it brings a variety of perspectives to problem-solving.
To cultivate adaptability:
- Continuously learn new things and expand your interests
- Embrace change rather than resisting it
- Be willing to let go of your ideas if better ones are proposed
- Keep your focus on organizational goals, embracing what moves you forward and discarding what doesn't
Remember, in a world where change is constant, your ability to adapt swiftly and effectively is your key to success.
3. Anticipate the Future: Seeing Around Corners
The ability to anticipate future events and trends is a valuable skill in both personal and professional settings. Consider the example of Jeremy H., who successfully managed an unexpected situation during a crucial Zoom board meeting by having a backup plan ready.
Anticipation isn't about predicting the distant future or possessing psychic abilities. It's a practical skill that can be developed and honed. Our brains are naturally wired to foresee outcomes, but some people – the Anticipators – have developed this ability to a higher degree.
To become an Anticipator:
- Learn from history and understand recurring patterns in human behavior
- Envision various scenarios to adapt flexibly to potential futures
- Consistently ask "What if?" to prepare for imminent changes
- Recognize patterns and develop cognitive flexibility
These skills enhance your situational awareness, enabling you to guide your teams with foresight. However, it's important to note that being an Anticipator doesn't mean creating long-term, inflexible strategies. In today's rapidly changing world, the most effective leaders are those who can see just one or two steps ahead.
4. Know Yourself: The Power of Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is a crucial skill for personal and professional success. Take Lynsi Snyder, the billionaire head of In-N-Out Burger, as an example. Despite facing numerous challenges in her life, including kidnapping attempts and family tragedies, Snyder's keen self-awareness has been a key factor in her success and in maintaining the integrity of the In-N-Out brand.
Self-awareness involves:
- Understanding your capabilities
- Recognizing your limitations
- Being mindful of your triggers
This skill is more than just a personal asset; it's a survival tactic that has evolved with humans over time. In the workplace, self-aware individuals often advance quickly in their careers. They handle criticism constructively, contribute positively to company culture, and effectively leverage their strengths.
Research shows that self-aware people tend to be:
- More creative
- Happier in relationships
- More effective leaders
Self-awareness also enhances teamwork by fostering healthy communication and considerate interactions, creating a work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.
To develop self-awareness:
- Practice humility and patience
- Seek honest feedback from trusted individuals
- Recognize your limits, but gently push them to expand your comfort zone
- Play to your strengths and collaborate with others who complement your weaknesses
Remember, mastering self-awareness is an ongoing process that requires patience and courage. The rewards, however, are significant, benefiting not just you but everyone around you.
5. Foster Curiosity: The Key to Innovation and Growth
Curiosity, often overlooked, can be a powerful driver of success in both personal and professional realms. It's the force behind groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that have propelled humanity forward.
Consider the story of Bill Rosenzweig, whose curiosity about tea culture led to the creation of The Republic of Tea, a successful and values-driven enterprise. This illustrates how curiosity can spark innovative business ideas and shape careers.
The benefits of curiosity are numerous:
- It's deeply rooted in human nature
- It leads to dopamine release in the brain, creating a positive feedback loop
- It enhances information retention
- It fosters empathy and connects you with others
- It can help ease anxiety
In the business world, curious individuals stand out to interviewers as candidates who are likely to grow and thrive in their roles. Their willingness to ask questions demonstrates a genuine interest in the company and the position.
To cultivate curiosity:
- Read broadly, from novels to international news
- Approach challenges by asking questions before proposing solutions
- Listen actively to understand diverse perspectives
- Remember that you don't know everything, and that's okay
Nurturing curiosity in all aspects of life pays off both professionally and personally. It sparks important conversations, builds wisdom, and can even lead to world-changing ideas.
6. Network and Connect: Building Your Social Capital
The power of connections in shaping one's life and career cannot be overstated. Consider the story of Anne Sullivan, whose life was transformed by a single connection that led her from a harsh orphanage to becoming Helen Keller's teacher.
Every successful person has had that crucial moment where a connection opened doors to new opportunities. These individuals have woven a web of diverse relationships that form their social capital, a resource they can tap into when needed.
In the past, these valuable connections were often limited to the upper echelons of society. However, the digital era, with platforms like LinkedIn, has democratized networking to some extent, making connections more accessible than ever.
However, it's important to understand that effective networking isn't about collecting contacts like trading cards. It's about forming genuine human connections. When you build strong relationships with your team, you become more than just a leader; you become a trusted confidant. Good connections also make work more enjoyable and help you navigate challenging times together.
To cultivate meaningful connections:
- Show genuine interest in others and strive to understand their stories
- Use online networks wisely, not just to expand your network but to nurture existing connections
- Give back by using your influence to open doors for others
- Make a conscious effort to stay connected, as life has a way of pulling people apart
Remember, the key to success in both business and life lies in recognizing the value of each person you meet and investing in those relationships.
Becoming Your Own Unicorn
Vanderbloemen's "Be the Unicorn" provides a roadmap for developing the soft skills that set exceptional leaders apart. By mastering the ability to act quickly, adapt to change, anticipate the future, know yourself, nurture curiosity, and build connections, you can become one of those rare and valuable Unicorns that organizations desperately seek.
These skills are exemplified by successful individuals like Blake Mycoskie, Ursula Burns, Lynsi Snyder, and Bill Rosenzweig – flexible, self-aware, forward-thinking leaders who thrive on change and innovation.
The journey to becoming a Unicorn is not an easy one. It requires commitment, self-reflection, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. You'll need to overcome inertia and self-doubt to act swiftly when opportunities arise. You'll have to lean into curiosity and embrace diverse perspectives. You'll need to continuously work on your self-awareness and adaptability.
But the rewards of this journey are immense. By developing these skills, you're not just improving your chances of professional success; you're also enhancing your personal growth and your ability to navigate life's challenges.
Final Thoughts
"Be the Unicorn" is more than just a guide to professional development. It's a call to action for anyone who wants to maximize their potential and become the very best version of themselves. In a world where change is constant and challenges are complex, these soft skills are more valuable than ever.
The book serves as a reminder that while technical skills and knowledge are important, it's often the human element – our ability to connect, adapt, anticipate, and innovate – that truly sets us apart. By focusing on these skills, we can not only enhance our own lives and careers but also contribute more meaningfully to our teams, organizations, and communities.
As you reflect on the lessons from "Be the Unicorn," consider how you can apply these principles in your own life. How can you be quicker in your decision-making? How can you become more adaptable in the face of change? How can you sharpen your ability to anticipate future trends and challenges? How can you deepen your self-awareness? How can you nurture your curiosity and expand your network of meaningful connections?
Remember, becoming a Unicorn is not about perfection. It's about continuous growth and improvement. It's about embracing your unique qualities and developing the skills that will allow you to shine in any environment.
The path to becoming a Unicorn may be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. As you embark on this journey, you'll likely find that these skills not only enhance your professional life but also enrich your personal relationships and overall life satisfaction.
So, are you ready to unleash your inner Unicorn? The journey starts now. Embrace the challenge, cultivate these essential skills, and watch as you transform into the rare and valuable individual that every organization seeks. Your potential is limitless – it's time to let your Unicorn shine!