The Warren Buffett People Formula for Finding Lasting Talent
One of the most challenging — and crucial — responsibilities of any leader is hiring exceptional staff members. It’s a decision that impacts your organization’s culture, productivity, and future success. But if you’ve ever asked yourself, Why is it so hard to find good people?, you’re not alone.
Business icon Warren Buffett offered a simple but powerful formula for hiring that may just reshape the way you approach your next hire. It’s called the People Formula, and it boils down to three essential traits:
- Integrity
This is the foundation. You want someone who consistently keeps their word, follows through on promises, and earns your trust. When you hire for integrity, you build a team rooted in accountability and trust.
- Intelligence
Buffett isn’t talking about IQ or academic brilliance. Intelligence here refers to a lifelong learning mindset. You want people who think critically, adapt quickly, and continue to grow. They stay up-to-date in their field and bring fresh ideas to the table.
- Initiative
Look for self-starters. The kind of person who doesn’t wait for a to-do list but actively looks for ways to improve systems, solve problems, and drive the mission forward. People with initiative are proactive — they don’t just work in your organization, they build it.
