Collaborative, creative, team player. Self-motivated, quick-learner, top communicator. Do these terms describe you? Well, they should because apparently they describe just about everyone based on the resumes I’ve seen. For certain, these terms are not original. While discussing your talents within a resume or interview, you need to convey you possess these attributes. However, job seekers should keep in mind these are not enough.
There is one attribute I don’t hear much about from candidates that I think may be more important than the others: ENDURANCE. As an avid cyclist, this word comes up often for me, especially around the discussion of long-distance rides and races.
In the working world, what connotations come to mind? If an employee has strong “endurance,” he or she typically:
* Do not shy away from tough assignments and gets them done on time
* Is politically savvy and can manage through controversy
* Can set action plans in place that are achievable (often times with limited resources)
* Leverages constructive criticism to make themselves better
* Sticks around for a while and looks to get promoted from within
* Does not get bored easily
* Takes few sick daysturtle
I’m sure the list goes on and on. As employers look to bolster their teams, they want strong contributors. All the common qualities mentioned at the top are important, but frankly, they are expectations of every candidate.
Endurance is something that is proven and displayed through solid examples. The best examples relate how an employee rose above the rest to accomplish big things during tough times. In my opinion, endurance is a differentiator. It enables you to go the distance.
Jeff Lipschultz
