Idea 36: Choosing people with motivation – the Michelangelo motive

Choosing people well means looking at motivation, ability and personality. When interviewing, look for evidence of the reality behind the interviewee's appearance and façade. If you do make a mistake, confront it and remedy the situation as early as you can.

The Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo was once asked: ‘Why did you take so much trouble painting those parts of the Sistine Chapel's roof that are invisible from below? No one will see them.’ Michelangelo replied: ‘God will.’

Looking for the ‘Michelangelo motive’ – where the quality of the work itself is a key motivator – can yield good results in selecting highly motivated individuals.

You should look for:

  • A sense ...

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