The iceberg model / Hidden talent

J. St. Luce
Apr 9, 2017
1 min read

Hemingway's theory of omission

An iceberg has about 20% above water and 80% hidden under the surface.

Which means that the biggest part of the iceberg remains unseen.

When looking at a successful person most of us only see the achievements like Status, Fame, Riches and Possesions. What most of us don't see is The hard work, The sacrifes, The Dedication and The pains of failure this person might have gone through.

We all have our basic competencies in varaying degrees. Our self image, characteristics and mindset.

Other competencies can be achieved from education, training and experience, these are our professional competencies. Our knowledge and skills.

But there are also hidden or differentiating competencies, these are factors different from average skills.

Hidden traits and behaviours.

Some examples:

Analytical reasoning
Commitment
Empathy
Adaptability
Motivation
Communication skills
Foresight
Emotional stability
Creativity
independence.

These hidden traits can be useful to make an impression, build your reputation or result in opportunities.

In my 10 years of corporate employment some of the companies tested and or recognized my hidden traits wich resulted in special titles or leading positions. With companies that didn't i was always asked the same question by my colleagues as well as supervisors and management ...

"How do you do it?"