Keep the attitude front and center

People ask me all the time what I look for when I hire new communications consultants into our firm. The first answer is always "intellectual curiosity." If I can't see that you have a thirst for learning and interest in stretching your mind then you won't make it here. Our work demands it.

The other big trait I look for is attitude. Do I mean a positive attitude? Of course. But I also look for someone who has a bit of an edge. I want people who are capable of being passionate about their work and that usually comes out in attitude.

I haven't met a client yet that wants us to be Yes Men or Yes Women. If you don't have a bit of an edge you might just nod your head and do whatever the client wants. Our clients pay us to be their counsel. That means telling it like it is and offering our professional perspective. Sometimes that is in direct opposition to their original thinking. But that's what we're here for.