Success is about Attitude not Aptitude
When applying for a job, resumes provide an overview of the potential employees aptitude. However, once in an interview, the potential employees attitude may become even more crucial to determining whether or not they will ultimately be hired. Unfortunately, there is often not enough attention paid to the fact that ultimately, success is about attitude not aptitude in most cases. Here are some of the reasons that this may prove to be true:Anticipating outcomesMost of us know one or two people in our lives who believe that a glass is always half-empty versus half-full. While the contents may be equal, this type of attitude determines how much time to spend with certain people. Managers, employees and others who have a reasonably positive attitude nearly always anticipate a good outcome. This type of outlook can help drive projects forward in a positive direction.Encouraging innovationOftentimes, those who have a positive attitude can have a positive impact on a project. For example, if a hurdle is encountered, those who are positive may come up with an innovative approach to overcoming the problem. From a business perspective, manager’s are generally appreciative of those who tend to provide a potential solution to a problem rather than saying something cannot be accomplished because of a problem.Positive influencesThose who have a negative attitude about their jobs or the tasks they are assigned to do can be corrosive on the overall morale of others. However, those who have a positive attitude and tend to take things in stride tend to improve morale. Improved morale typically leads to higher productivity which is good for business.Leadership skillsGenerally speaking, there are numerous leadership skills that can be taught. However, the overall attitude that a person has is something that may be altered by specific events, but not taught. Most people who have a generally positive attitude tend to be strong role models and good leaders.There is little doubt that nearly all jobs require certain knowledge and aptitude. These vary from job to job and may be more or less restrictive depending on the role of the employee. However, an employee who has a good attitude about their job, the task at hand and life in general almost always tend to be more successful.This phenomenon may be a result of the fact that those with a positive attitude simply refuse to give up or it may be because they create a positive atmosphere that breeds success. Regardless of whypositive people tend to be more successful, generally speaking, these people have made up their minds to be successful. A conscious decision has been made that will simply not allow them to fail.
Aptitude may be what lands a person a job interview, however, without the right attitude there may be no follow up. Skills may determine how well someone does their job but ultimately, their attitude will have a more significant impact on how successfully the job is done.
