Technology advancements have become a no-surprise, although their effects are often more than surprising. Hard-working human brains are hidden behind those advancements. Human brains that work at the edge of capacity, intelligence, knowledge, creativity, inspiration, will, passion, dedication. Talented human brains owned by talented (?) human beings. If this is a statement, we can sleep in peace. If this is a question with no profound answer, we need to stay alert.

Talent exists, talent is sometimes hidden, talent can always be directed, talent is undoubtedly decisive for our future. Which talent exactly do we mean? In my opinion, we are talking about the “holistic talent”, not the “just expertise” one.

Having worked in various positions and companies in the technology industry for more than 20 years, I have been lucky enough to have come across brilliant and super productive people. I have also been fortunate to have met capable but totally uncooperative people who lack the ability and the desire to share. Both experiences have been very interesting and useful to me. Moreover, they have been excellent lessons to learn from.

There is no doubt that talent is absolutely necessary in technology development. We have to note, though, that in order for talent to lead to widely beneficial results, a good character is also essential. Is this an inherited advantage? Not really. Does it regularly accompany talent? Not at all. Most of the times, it is a skill/attitude developed, enhanced, encouraged.

Technology can lead to the best and it can also provoke the worst. Only technology driven by a “holistic talent” can guarantee healthy progress of the world, as we know it.

So, what are the characteristics of a “holistically talented person” in the technology industry? Few but crucial:

Talent supporting corporate vision not just personal ambitions Talent consistently getting improved through a life-long learning process Talent in equilibrium with emotional intelligence Talent accompanied by humility and authenticity

We have to find, develop, keep and encourage such talent. Moreover, we have to praise the right talent for the right reason. Unfortunately, we have all experienced more cases where talent has led technology to the wrong direction (evil, arrogance and individualism) rather than in the right one (common targets, healthy growth, social benefit). Mentoring & coaching can significantly help in this direction.

In Greece we are far behind utilizing talent. We are just in the 50th position (among 93 countries) in the Global Talent Competitiveness index (with Switzerland keeping the 1st position).

To make the long story short, the lesson is the following: “no talent is useful unless able to contribute and distribute”.

We have a difficult future ahead, so we need the best (holistic talent) out of each one of us. Let’s make no compromise!

Talent as the most critical component in the technology industry

Marica Labrou, General Manager, Business Imaging & Professional Print Group