Discernment: An Essential Quality of a Star Employee

Discernment is a key trait that distinguishes star employees! Yes, technical skills and knowledge are essential, but the ability to perceive, understand, and judge situations with clarity often will set you apart. 

Why Discernment Really Matters

In professional environments, decisions often need to be made quickly and with limited information. Discerning employees can assess situations, understand the dynamics, and make informed choices. This skill is even more valuable when you’re in a fast-paced or high-stress environment. If we’re all being honest, work environments tend to lean this direction more days than not. So yes, it matters!

The Qualities of a Discerning Employee

Critical Thinking:

During our VIP Leadership or VIP Employee training we take a deep dive into critical thinking. It’s so important! We love the following quote from Aristotle: “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Using critical thinking helps you “peel back the onion,” identify any biases and view situations from other's perspectives which leads to a more innovative solution.

Reading the Room:

Discerning team members excel at reading the room. They know when to speak up and when to stay silent.

Choosing Their Battles:

To be discerning you must know when to stand firm and when to compromise for the benefit of the team and/or their customers. They stop and think, “Will this matter in a year - or 5 years?”

"Discernment is the fruit of wisdom, developed through experience and reflection."

This quote captures the essence of discernment: it is not something acquired overnight but rather cultivated over time!

Developing Discernment

Seek Feedback:

We mention this all the time because seeking feedback is an ongoing process. Simply opening the dialogue with a colleague, mentor, or supervisor by asking, “What areas do you think I need to improve on?” can make a huge difference. This feedback can provide valuable insight into areas you might not be aware of.

Reflect on Past Experiences:

Take time to reflect on past experiences, both successes and failures. This reflection helps you identify patterns and learn from your mistakes!

Practice Active Listening:

This is another area we spend ample time on during our training. Active listening allows you to pick up on cues and gain a deeper understanding of other's viewpoints. This skill can help your ability to read a room and respond appropriately.\

If we haven’t already convinced you, discernment is an extremely important trait to utilize in the workplace. It enables you to navigate tough decisions and contributes to a positive workplace. By developing discernment, you can position yourself as a star employee - someone who is valued, not just for their skills, but for their wisdom and judgment.