Transformative Genius, for those with insight.

“Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.” ~ Arthur Schopenhauer

Hire talented people all day long.  Talent is something that every good team can use.  Talent is often flexible, so you may not even know why you need a talented person on your team yet.  Hire them anyway, because you’ll find a seat for them on the bus that is your team/department/company.

While you always want talent on your team, Leaders, keep an eye out for genius.  It may not be apparent, so you’ve got to have imagination.  Genius might manifest itself in the form of “ridiculous” ideas from one of your quiet team members.  It might be someone throwing out a BHAG that is actually do-able – once they explain how.  Maybe it’s just someone turning a product/process/concept on its side, and then seeing how it stands up better that way.  Listen for those crazy genius ideas.  Talent will improve your team incrementally.  Genius can be transformative if you are wise enough to recognize it.

Speaking of genius (and the fine line between it and insanity)…

Rubes cartoons used with permission. www.rubescartoons.com