A genius coworker is as much a rarity as it is an extremely valuable resource to tap into. They can be the catalyst you need to drive your workplace into a bastion of ingenuity. It’s why so many employers and managers are on the lookout for that spark of creativity. It’s why it’s so important to know the answer to the question “How do you spot a genius coworker?”
The Signs Of Genius: What To Look For
While one would think that a genius would stand out above the rest, sometimes it just isn’t the case. There might be a time when someone you think is a regular joe shows the telltale characteristics of geniuses. If you’re someone looking to make the most out of your workforce, you’ll want to figure out who can be cultivated and trained.
Here are some of the signs that we feel are characteristic of geniuses and the underlying potential that each one has:
1. An Appetite For Discovery
One trait of genius is a curious mind and creativity that can back it up. Some sources call this a “bottom-up” process wherein one can individually pick the parts that make up the whole of an idea. From there, they exhibit a view of the world that’s more nuanced when compared to the average person.
This is usually shown through their problem-solving skills but outliers do exist. Whether through impeccable visual memory or other means, it all culminates into an appetite for discovery that’s seldom quenched by a shallow dive into a topic of interest.
2. A Willingness To Exploration Of Ideas
Another trait to watch out for is the willingness of a person to explore what others aren’t pursuing as of now. Of course, this also tends to be subject to the personality of the individual. However, many researchers find that people who are equated as geniuses tend to pursue leads no matter how many dead ends lay in their path.
Of course, these are the main signifiers of genius according to some studies. Other aspects of intellectual genius can be difficult to spot if you don’t know exactly what to look for.
You might find that certain geniuses can be odd in their way, sometimes even boring in how they communicate. What matters is that we treat them with respect and help them towards cultivating a culture of excellence that’ll help them and you in the long run.