Technique vs. Talent

I'd wager that a college baseball player can throw a ball harder and faster than an Olympic weight-lifter. Actually, I have no doubt that is true. Does that seem strange to anyone? That the stronger person can't throw a ball harder and faster than a college kid? No mystery here. This is simple technique versus talent, and applies to more than just strength. Combine the two and you have a superstar. Remove one and you have mediocrity - or worse, you have unrealized potential.

In the business world, technique is called experience and credentials. It’s a degree in marketing with X years experience. It’s a degree in engineering and X years experience. Talent on the other hand, in the business world, is raw intelligence, people skills and the ability to build trust and solid relationships. These are your strengths. Of course the lists go on, but let's be careful to not confuse the two.

Make no mistake - you do need both. Your employees need both. So add some technique to your talent. Take professional development and training seriously. Conversely, play to your strengths and be careful when you attempt to substitute technique for talent.

Don't expect to reach your goals without one or the other. Donald Trump once said "bulls#*t will only get you so far."  Guess what?    He's right.