Coachable, Learnable, and Intrinsic - Hiring Framework
Source Information
- Author: Shreyas Doshi (ex-Stripe, Twitter, Google, Yahoo)
- Platform: LinkedIn
- Type: Hiring framework post
- URL: LinkedIn Post
The Framework
When hiring Product Managers (and potentially other roles), understand which qualities fall into three categories:
Coachable
Skills where external help makes a pretty substantial difference (you still have to do the work):
- Tactics
- Process
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Domain knowledge
Learnable
Skills that need external help, but the biggest battle is internal, by far:
- Cognitive empathy
- High agency
- Deep focus
- Judgment
- Creativity
Intrinsic
Qualities that are largely inborn or acquired in childhood:
- Drive
- Integrity
- Curiosity
- Deep care
- Ownership
Key Insights
On Intrinsic Qualities
- Sometimes binary (e.g., “there is no such thing as ‘medium integrity’ because medium integrity is low integrity”)
- Major changes usually (but not always) come from major life transformations
- Otherwise can take decades to change
Hiring Implications
- Coachable: Can be developed with training and mentorship
- Learnable: Requires self-motivation and internal work, external help is secondary
- Intrinsic: Screen for these during hiring; very difficult to develop later
Applicability
While framed for Product Managers, this framework applies broadly to:
- Engineering roles
- Leadership positions
- Any knowledge work requiring judgment and ownership
Discussion Points
From the comments:
- Andrey F. notes that some “intrinsic” attributes can be adjusted with the right techniques and recommends “The Attributes” by Rich Divine. The book apparently shows how to adjust attributes like curiosity, drive, and care, suggesting these aren’t as fixed as commonly believed.
- Kiran Somanchi suggests a broader CAR framework: Capacity, Achievements, Relationships
- Raheem Ashrafi questions how to demonstrate soft skills in early interview stages
Book Recommendation
“The Attributes” by Rich Divine - Recommended for understanding techniques to develop what are traditionally considered “intrinsic” qualities. Claims we can teach our brains to be more curious and adjust other fundamental attributes.
To read: Explore whether this book provides practical techniques for developing intrinsic qualities.
Atomic Notes
- [[Coachable vs Learnable vs Intrinsic Skills]]
- [[Intrinsic Qualities in Hiring]]
- [[Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset]]
Related Concepts
- [[Engineering Strategy]]
- Talent development
- Hiring practices
- Leadership development
Source: Shreyas Doshi on LinkedIn