HBR On Leadership

When Hiring, Emphasize Skills Over Degrees

38 snips
Feb 26, 2025
Ginni Rometty, the former Chairman and CEO of IBM and author of 'Good Power,' shares her insights on transforming hiring practices. She discusses her journey from adversity to leadership, emphasizing a skills-based approach to talent management over traditional degrees. Rometty underscores the importance of continuous learning and fostering a culture that values problem-solving and soft skills. She argues that this shift not only builds resilient teams but also cultivates inclusive workplaces, driving both business success and societal progress.
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ANECDOTE

Mother's Resilience

  • Ginny Rometty's mother, facing adversity, pursued education in accounting and computing.
  • This allowed her to secure better jobs and improve their financial situation, demonstrating the power of skills.
ANECDOTE

Apprenticing and Soft Skills

  • Early in her IBM career, Rometty spent a Sunday learning a client's software, emphasizing hands-on learning.
  • She also focused on improving her communication skills by observing others and actively seeking feedback.
ADVICE

Fostering a Learning Culture

  • Encourage continuous learning and skill development in your team, emphasizing curiosity and a willingness to learn.
  • IBM's "Think Academy" fostered a culture of learning with mandatory monthly training sessions.
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