What is attitude?
We are proud to admit that we hire for attitude and train for skill. But why? And what does that mean?
Before I delve into all the reasons why we place a precedent on an applicant’s attitude, let’s begin by just taking a closer look at what “attitude” is. In psychology, attitudes refer to emotions, beliefs, and behaviours toward a particular object, person, thing, or event. Attitudes can often result from a person’s experience or upbringing, and they can significantly influence how someone behaves. This is one of the main reasons why we at 3 Trees place such great importance on an individual’s attitude. Our attitude and behaviour are vital to the quality of care we deliver.
We hire for attitude
We are not stuck in offices all day, glued to a computer screen and having minimal contact with others. It is quite the opposite. Due to the nature of social care work, we are highly sociable, require both physical and emotional connection. We must be able to adapt our communication styles effectively, whether towards our colleagues or clients.
We are caring, kind and socially intelligent. These are just a few character strengths that those should easily express in the caring profession.
We can train you
So, it’s important to understand why, at 3 Trees, we prioritize attitude over skill. However, let’s discuss the significance of craft. Skill development plays a critical role in personal growth. While a candidate may possess numerous skills, certificates, and qualifications showcasing their capability for specific roles, it is their attitude that truly matters. If their attitude is not favourable, kind, and caring, their accomplishments become futile.
Having extensive qualifications and an impressive CV, along with the ability to answer challenging questions eloquently, is not enough. The practical and caring application of skills, abilities, and qualifications is vital (i.e., aligning them with an attitude that imparts care and compassion for others). Without this alignment, these attributes are useless for a social care worker.
Zig Ziglar
Besides having the coolest name in history, Zig Ziglar achieved success as an author, salesman, and motivational speaker. Although the authenticity of this story remains uncertain, its message remains powerful.
According to the story, Zig collaborated with a company and asked the management to list all the qualities of their best employees. After approximately four hours of brainstorming and noting down responses on a whiteboard, the management team identified 107 distinct attributes. However, they didn’t stop there; Zig encouraged them to continue for another hour!
With determination, the management team persisted, and by the end of the day, they had discovered 114 qualities they associated with their top-performing employees. Zig and the management team then reviewed each quality, assigning either an ‘A’ or an ‘S’ next to them.
The letter ‘A’ represented ‘Attitude,’ signifying caring, supportive, positive, and focused traits that were inherent to an individual’s character. On the other hand, ‘S’ represented ‘Skill,’ indicating qualifications, certifications, or prestigious roles held due to impressive expertise in a specific area.
The findings revealed that around 100 qualities were attributed to a positive ‘Attitude,’ while only 14 qualities were tied to specific ‘Skills.’ Regardless of the story’s veracity, Zig aimed to emphasize the importance of hiring for attitude and providing skills training to build effective teams and foster a positive work culture.
Genuine connections = strong directions
Working in a people-centric industry, we must surround ourselves with positive connections, like-minded, caring individuals, and people who support one another when times are tough and inspire us in moments of depletion. These qualities usually stem from a person’s attitude and will be visibly reflected in the quality of care we provide others.
What next?
At 3 Trees, we hire for attitude and then require you to attend a two-week intensive induction program that gives you the fundamental skills to effectively perform your job role as a social care worker.
On completion of your induction, you’re then partnered with an experienced member of staff that will ease you into the new role, supporting you to apply the skills learnt in induction until you, the company, and most importantly, the people that you support are cared for to the highest standard.
Our MASTERS continuing professional development system can give you clear direction and guidance concerning your progression and personal development here at 3TCS.
If you are located in Bristol or the surrounding areas and are interested in working for a supportive, highly engaged and motivated company, please don’t hesitate to leave your contact details below or apply to be a Social Care Worker with us!
Your attitude, not aptitude, will determine your altitude – Zig Ziglar
