I have a few personal scars from my recruiting experience, and one of my top learnings is to avoid hiring rockstars. Recruiting and hiring the right person for the job is one of the most challenging tasks in business.
To understand the term ‘rockstar’, think of an actual rockstar in a music band. They are, somehow, normally jerks but charming. They speak loud, don’t care about anyone, and are unusually talented. You would probably go to see them perform or join their after-party, but would you work with them? or for them? or hire them?
How do you spot a rockstar?
- They are intelligent in their line of work, and they will quickly show you their skills. You will quickly admire their skillset; you might even get blinded by them; they are rockstars, after all.
- They will use the phrase I achieved X versus We achieved X. They don’t feel like their achievements have been due in any shape or format to contributions from others.
- They typically are bad coaches, managers, or trainers. They don’t like to share their knowledge, and they will refrain from managing others. They might like to have a team around them or even report to them, but it’s only to serve their individual goals or aspirations.
Rockstars come with baggage, and they are heavy. Despite their unquestionable expertise or talent, they don’t like to work for others. They only care about what is in their mind. No matter what they say, they will focus on that at all times; don’t be fooled. They can’t be managed, and one can lose a lot of time from the stress they bring for you and your team.
Some will say that if you want to do something great, you need a rockstar in your team. I disagree. That is the story that is picked up by media or movie studios. You need high-performing individuals who collectively want to work towards one goal or purpose and do something great. There are plenty out there that are not rockstars. Just look for them.
