Evaluating your team
Test judgement by asking them to make predictions for a topic they’re “passionate about outside of work.”
“Press them to commit themselves; unwillingness to go out on a limb is a warning sign in itself. Then probe why they think their predictions are correct. Does the rationale make sense? If possible, follow up to see what happens.” (Watkins 2013, chap. 7)
Nonverbal clues
- Notice what the person does not say. Does the person volunteer information, or do you have to extract it? Does the person take responsibility for problems in her area? Make excuses? Subtly point fingers at others?
- How consistent are the individuals facial expressions and body language with her words?
- What topics elicit strong emotional responses? These hot buttons provide clues to what motivates the individual and what kinds of changes she would be energized by.
- Outside these one-on-one meetings, notice how the individual relates to other team members. Do relations appear cordial and productive? Tense and competitive? Judgmental or reserved? (Watkins 2013, chap. 7)
Watkins, Michael. 2013. The First 90 Days, Updated and Expanded: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter. Harvard Business Review Press.