In a recent PRLE podcast episode with our Group CEO David Etherington, he shared with Regional Talent Attraction Manager Jenny Walsh how he made it to the top of the recruiting and consulting industry. He gave lots of useful tips and insights that can be particularly relevant for newcomers to recruitment.
Learn in this article why IQ, EQ, SQ & AQ play a special role if you want to make it as a recruiter; what makes these factors and other useful tips.
Why a high IQ alone is no guarantee for fast career advancement
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the fact that intelligence comes in many forms. While IQ, or intelligence quotient, has long been the standard measure of intelligence, it is now widely accepted that there are other forms of intelligence that are just as important, if not more so.
While most of us are familiar with IQ or Intelligence Quotient, which measures comprehension and cognitive abilities, David pointed out that “research shows that around 80% of our success comes from EQ or Emotional Quotient”. Emotional quotient, or EQ, refers to the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. EQ is often referred to as emotional intelligence, and it is increasingly recognised as an important factor in personal and professional success.
This is further strengthened by SQ or Social Quotient, which is the ability to make and maintain healthy relationships over the long term - the perfect blend to progress your career.
What Does the Ideal Candidate Look Like in Practice?
So what does this blend of qualities look like in practice? David suggested that the ideal candidate in a recruitment position would possess a mix of ambition, curiosity, problem-solving skills, adaptability, confidence, passion, and effective communication. He also stressed the importance of longevity, which requires the ability to weather the storm during difficult times.
This is where AQ or Adversity Quotient comes in, which is the ability to cope with and sustain difficult situations. David noted that the staffing industry, in particular, can be a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, and it's essential to be able to cope with the downs in a sustainable way. This requires qualities such as resilience, durability, patience, and consistency.
So, while IQ remains an important measure of cognitive ability, it is increasingly clear that it is not the only measure of intelligence. EQ, SQ, and AQ are all important factors in personal and professional success, and individuals who develop these skills are likely to enjoy greater well-being and success in life. By recognising and developing these different types of intelligence, we can build a more well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Setting Goals and Holding Oneself Accountable: Taking Ownership of Your Career
While David acknowledges that he's not a perfect example of this blend of qualities, he believes that it's the right balance that has enabled him to navigate his career successfully. He advises that taking ownership of one's career is crucial and that no one is more responsible for their career than themselves.
In terms of setting goals and getting clear on what to do next, David suggests taking a step back and looking at one's value set. This involves taking a view of where you're at, what the right progression is for you, and what you need to do to gain that progression. He stresses the importance of holding oneself accountable and doing the necessary work to achieve the desired outcome.
David also notes that in a fast-growth environment like the recruitment industry, "waiting to be led like a horse to water is not a luxury that one can afford". Instead, one must take a radical and transparent approach to evaluating their achievements, strengths, and weaknesses. This requires the same level of judgement and scrutiny that we often apply to a candidate's resume or achievements.
In summary, a successful career requires a blend of IQ, EQ, SQ and AQ, and the ability to weather the storm during difficult times. Taking ownership of one's career, setting clear goals, and holding oneself accountable are essential for achieving success.
Want to hear more of David's insights? Listen to the full podcast episode here or by searching for "Progressing Recruiters Lives Everywhere" on your favourite platform!
