The exercise Elon Musk uses to spot talent— and how you can use it to prove your impact at work

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, seeks exceptional talent when hiring new candidates. During interviews, Musk asks individuals to provide three bullet points that showcase their exceptional ability. This technique is designed to elicit specific examples of work that inspire a "wow" reaction. Instead of summarizing accomplishments, Musk encourages candidates to share detailed examples demonstrating impact.

Musk is known for his high standards in hiring. He has repeatedly stated that he looks for exceptional ability in candidates, even when their accomplishments are not directly related to the position they are applying for. This approach is based on the belief that extraordinary achievements are often indicative of future success.

One of Musk's hiring tactics involves asking candidates for three bullet points that highlight their exceptional ability. Musk explained that college degrees are not always a reliable indicator of the best talent. For instance, notable figures like Bill Gates, Larry Ellison, and Steve Jobs did not complete their college education. Musk emphasized that if a candidate has a track record of exceptional achievements, it is likely that this pattern will continue in the future.

To put this approach into practice, individuals can spend a few minutes reflecting on three accomplishments they are proud of. For each accomplishment, they should write down what they contributed, the impact it had, and any relevant metrics that demonstrate its value. Bringing this list to job interviews, promotion conversations, or performance reviews can help convey a clearer picture of one's impact.

In summary, to prove one's impact at work, it is essential to highlight specific achievements that evoke a "wow" response. This approach is more effective than providing a summary of all completed tasks over a six-month period. By sharing detailed examples, individuals can effectively demonstrate their exceptional ability and stand out in the eyes of potential employers.