“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” — Stephen Covey

Dee Hock, Founder and previous CEO of Visa International recommends: “Never hire or promote in your own image.  It is foolish to replicate your strength. It is idiotic to replicate your weakness.  It is essential to employ, trust, and reward those whose perspective, ability, and judgment are radically different from yours.  It is also rare, for it requires uncommon humility, tolerance, and wisdom.”

Ancient Chinese military general and philosopher, Sun Tzu, observed: “There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard.”

The Bottom Line: Leaders do not hire people in their own image — they value and pursue teammates who are aligned; but, contribute different skills and temperaments.