Too many of us look for talent in the same old (wrong) places, or follow the popular trend of thinking the “best hire” is the “best culture fit.” These approaches undermine efforts to boost diversity (demographically and cognitively) and ultimately hinder creativity and innovation. While there is no one “best” way to hire talent, there certainly are better approaches than those we have relied on in the past. Researchers have outlined seven science-based recommendations to help managers update their hiring tactics, and develop their talent management skills along the way: think ahead, focus on the right traits, be data-driven, hire internally, be inclusive, consider who will add the most to your team as a unit, and never stop trying to make people better.

Hiring the right people within your team is, in my opinion, one of the most difficult things to do as a manager. My basic rule has always been: look for people who bring a unique talent. Or in other words; People who are smarter than you in some area. This raises the bar for your entire team, including yourself.