Priyanka Jain, co-founder and CEO of Evvy, is not just looking for warm bodies when hiring; she seeks individuals who embody an ethos of hard work and resourcefulness. In this day and age, when government overreach and corporate elitism have permeated our lives, the value of personal accountability has never been clearer.
According to Jain, she desires candidates who go beyond mere job descriptions. This reflects a mindset crucial in a world that often downplays the importance of dedication. Listing volunteer work or projects outside one’s primary responsibilities should not be the exception but the expectation. Employers and employees alike must embrace the idea that contributing to society and making a difference should be part of our professional identity.
Conversely, Jain’s aversion to those solely interested in strategy reveals a deeper truth: execution matters. When responsibilities become defined so narrowly, we risk losing sight of the bigger picture. Individuals must be adaptable, ready to tackle problems head-on rather than remaining comfortably nestled in their so-called zones of genius. It is this adaptability, rooted in a strong work ethic, that will guide us through the murky waters of today’s corporate landscape.
‘Everybody has to be able to do both’
In economies where startups are becoming more common, a lack of resources should not provide an excuse for sub-par performance. Every individual must possess the ability to identify problems and roll up their sleeves to find solutions. Jain emphasizes that in a startup environment, the luxury of segregating strategy from execution simply does not exist.
We can no longer afford to compartmentalize roles; we need well-rounded individuals who can diagnose issues and implement solutions systematically. A commitment to personal responsibility is essential for any thriving economy, and it echoes the values we should hold dear as a society. In a time when inflation has eroded the average American’s prosperity, this kind of proactive mindset can be a game-changer.
Ultimately, a well-functioning workforce requires perhaps the most traditional of values: a willingness to take initiative and the courage to face challenges head-on. This is what drives innovation and fosters growth within our communities.
‘The level of detail that anybody’s able to get into’ can be a clue
To identify candidates who can think critically and take pragmatic steps to solve problems, Jain probes deeper into their previous experiences. The level of detail they can provide speaks volumes about their past involvement. A candidate that can articulate how they tackled a specific issue likely possesses the grit needed to do so again in a new setting.
Additionally, a positive attitude towards overcoming challenges indicates a valuable trait in any potential employee. In today’s challenging environment, particularly where governmental policies can oftentimes stifle growth, individuals who take pleasure in both ideation and execution will shine. This enthusiasm translates into a workforce that is committed to making tangible progress, despite odds stacked against them.
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