Proactivity and Problem Identification as Key Traits of Top ICs

One of the most common traits that differentiate top individual contributors (ICs) in design is their proactiveness. They are able to identify and prioritize the most important problems to solve, which can have a significant impact on the product and the company. They don't wait for problems or tasks to be assigned to them but actively seek out areas where they can make a difference. Being a conduit for ideas and feedback is also crucial. Top ICs become someone that others want to give their best ideas to, and they are receptive to critique and feedback. They prioritize and think systematically, considering how an idea fits into the bigger picture of the company. This ability to prioritize and think strategically is essential for being an effective IC.