Philipp Navratil, CEO of Nestlé, emphasizes three key traits that successful employees possess based on his two decades of corporate experience.
1. Curiosity
Navratil believes in the importance of continuous learning. He encourages employees to seek new skills and knowledge, whether through self-teaching or collaboration with mentors. He himself engages in reverse mentoring to stay updated on new trends, showcasing that even at the executive level, learning never stops.
2. Drive
A go-getter attitude is crucial for promotions. Navratil highlights that ambition and a strong desire to improve are more predictive of success than merely having the right qualifications. He emphasizes the importance of being hungry for success and making a positive impact.
3. Humility
Navratil values humility, stating that boastfulness can hinder success. Successful employees recognize their limitations and are open to seeking help, avoiding the arrogance that can come from assuming they know everything.
To summarize, Navratil advises aspiring professionals to “be humble, be hungry, and be curious,” while continually seeking knowledge and improvement throughout their careers.
