Both IQ and EQ are considered important to our career success. Enter adaptability quotient(AQ), a subjective set of qualities loosely defined as the ability to improve in an environment of fast and frequent change.
Every profession will require adaptability and flexibility. Say you are an accountant. Your IQ gets you through the examinations. Your EQ helps your connect with an interviewer, land a job, and develop relationships with clients and colleagues. All three quotients are somewhat complementary(互补的), since they all help you solve problems and therefore adapt. An ideal candidate possesses all three, but not everyone does. While there is no definite method of measuring adaptability like an IQ test, companies are changing their recruitment (招聘) processes to help identify people who may be high in it.
Natalie Fratto suggests three ways AQ might show in potential candidates: if they can picture possible versions of the future by asking what if questions; if they can unlearn information to challenge conventional wisdom; and if they enjoy exploration or seeking out new experiences.
First, limit distractions and learn to focus so that you can determine what adaptations to make. Second, ask uncomfortable questions to develop courage and normalize fear. Third, be curious about things that fascinate you by having more conversations rather than Googling the ready answer.
Over the next three years, 120 million people may need to be reskilled because of automation, according to a 2019 IBM study. We may not all be comfortable with the pace of change-but we can prepare.
A. AQ is now increasingly being sought at the hiring level.
B. One good thing about AQ is that experts say you can work to develop it.
C. The ability to learn, change, grow, experiment will be the key.
D. This is because an algorithm (算法) can do these tasks faster and more accurately than a human.
E. But today, as technology redefines how we work, the skills we need to improve in the job market are developing too.
F. Having IQ but no EQ would leave you struggling to embrace new ways of working using your existing skills.
G. Then, when systems change or aspects of work are automated, you will need AQ to accommodate this innovation and adapt to new ways of performing your role.
