Five Skills

Martin Appel Vice President-HR IBM India

When he took over as Chairman and CEO of IBM in 2002, Sam Palmisano outlined his vision for how IBM would grow to be a “great company”. IBM today is one of the world’s most respected places to work, to do business with, to invest in and as a corporate citizen.

In IBM’s journey to be a “great company” the most important ingredient are undoubtedly—our people. So what kind of people are ‘in demand’ for this “on demand” company. What are the characteristics of the people who contribute to the making of this “great company”. Here are five skills which employees must have, these can set them apart, enable them to win and make a difference to their workplace.

Adaptability and creative problem-solving : Excellence in innovation requires adaptability. This competence demonstrates flexibility in dealing with situations, changing demands, uncertainty and stress, modifying goals and direction as needed, and maintaining focus despite conflicting demands. You cannot have innovation without creative problem-solving abilities. This competency emphasises the importance of applying logical methods to solve problems, anticipating potential problems and planning accordingly, efficiently considering alternative, creative solutions and identifying the most appropriate solutions.

Passion for business : A passion for business displays a level of enthusiasm for and pride in one’s organisation and in one’s own job or work that inspires others. As employees, they should be outwardly passionate about the business, win in the market place, and demonstrate clearly what the company stands for. Employees should make a personal and professional commitment to the success of the organisation for which they are working. To support the commitment to the customer, employees should accomplish challenging goals and look for ways to improve outcomes, consistently overcome obstacles to produce high-quality results, and actively seek to acquire new knowledge and improve skills.

Client focus : It is necessary for an employee to understand the client’s business, needs and goals from their point of view, build long-term relationships with the clients and ensure complete customer satisfaction. Selling a solution is critical, perhaps more important than just pushing a product. Adding value to a client’s business and putting oneself in the client’s often-uncomfortable shoes. The ‘pinch’ will go a long way in reminding us of what our ‘real’ goals are. Winning teams are those that can think for the client and often take tough decisions, which are beneficial in the long run.

Teamwork, partnerships and collaboration : Only by collaborating and working effectively with individuals and teams, respecting and valuing others’ differences, and building and strengthening relationships can we achieve win-win solutions and promote long-term relationships. Build and maintain relationships with colleagues to increase productivity, work well with people whose background, culture, language or work style differ from your own. IBMers are in close touch with over 320,000 colleagues worldwide.

Communication : Straight talk—say it like it is. Speaking clearly and concisely helps demonstrate integrity and build trust. Communicate openly and honestly, listen carefully to others, match mode and style of communication to situation and audience, and understand and effectively use communication tools. Sometimes we have to relearn our actions when we work in new cultures—make an effort to learn the local ways and when in Japan do as the Japanese would. Language reflects our work culture. Affirmative need not be rude, be liberal with praise to those deserve it and encourage those with challenges at the workplace.