Develop These Traits
Engineers are known for having certain traits. They are often viewed as:
Curious;
Logical;
Able to concentrate;
Respectful of intelligence;
Demanding high ethical standards;
Reserved and having poor social skills;
Desiring structure and order;
Somewhat dogmatic in their beliefs;
Perfectionists;
Dislike change and ambiguity; and
Having a good sense of humor.
In comparing these traits with those typically associated with successful managers, leaders, and business people, you’ll find several similarities…and two key differences. The similarities are:
Integrity;
Assertive;
Being creative; and
Having a sense of humor.
The two key variances are those traits which we should all focus on growing. These are:
Being open (both to other opinions and beliefs); and
Good people skills.
Both involve interaction with other people and communications. For some these are difficult traits to embrace, because as engineers we are not comfortable with the ambiguity and differences in logic that can come from working with other people. It’s never fun to have your ideas questioned or your work critiqued. Yet this exact interchange is what makes life a learning experience and what ultimately yields the best end result.