The two traits that make you unstoppable at work – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Two traits stand out to me as absolutely critical for any team member, whether a seasoned colleague or a new recruit: adaptability and enthusiasm.

These aren’t just desirable qualities—they are essential.

When I look at the individuals I admire most, these traits define them. They are the engines that power success, resilience, and innovation in any organisation. And as the workplace becomes increasingly unpredictable and fast-paced, adaptability and enthusiasm will determine who thrives and who stagnates.

Adaptability – Catalyst for innovation

Adaptability is, quite simply, the ability to embrace change without being overwhelmed by it. And in today’s world, where markets, tech, and customer expectations shift at lightning speed, being adaptable isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a ‘must have.’

I’ve seen adaptable colleagues turn challenges into opportunities and uncertainty into strategic advantage. Whether it’s a sudden pivot in company direction or a new tech platform disrupting established workflows, those who can adjust quickly, stay calm under pressure, and adapt, are the ones who shine.

What I find particularly remarkable is that adaptability isn’t just about responding to change – it’s about anticipating it.

The best employees see changes on the horizon and start adjusting before they’re forced to. They don’t wait for instructions; they proactively find ways to integrate new methods, tools, or ideas into their work. This kind of forward-thinking adaptability drives innovation.

It creates an environment where employees are not just reactive but are actively contributing to the company’s growth and success by staying ahead of the curve.

And let’s be clear: this doesn’t mean throwing process and strategy out the window whenever something new comes along. On the contrary, adaptable people excel because they know how to balance flexibility with structure. They can bend without breaking. They maintain their core values and commitment to excellence, even as they experiment with new ways of working.

Enthusiasm – fuel for growth

Alongside adaptability, the trait I most admire in anyone entering the workplace is enthusiasm.

And not just any enthusiasm, but a deep, genuine excitement about learning and growing.

The people who stand out, who make a lasting impression, are those who show up every day with a hunger for more. They bring an energy that’s infectious, and they aren’t afraid to dive into unfamiliar territory, challenge themselves, and expand their skills.

It’s the differentiator between someone who will stay in the same role, doing the same tasks for years, and someone who will continuously evolve, taking on new responsibilities and opening up doors for themselves.

Enthusiastic learners are always seeking the next step, the next challenge, and the next opportunity to grow. That drive to keep progressing is what makes them invaluable assets to any organisation.

Synergy between the two

It’s the combination of adaptability and enthusiasm that I believe is the ‘secret cocktail’ for high-performing teams.

In new recruits, this combination stands out even more. When someone is both adaptable and enthusiastic, they don’t just fit in with a team – they elevate it.

This is why I always look for these two traits during the hiring process. Degrees, technical skills, and experience are important, but adaptability and enthusiasm are what will define long-term success in any role.

If you want to excel, if you want to be indispensable, develop these traits. Because in my view, adaptability and enthusiasm are not just traits of great employees – they are traits of leaders.