How Can I Professionally Recognize a Talented Team Member Who Aims for Leadership?

Hi,

I feel this is a very tough question if anybody asks me: how to handle a brilliant team member, as this person (22 years old, male) is too good in all tasks, and I couldn't able to fix any weaknesses in him. Though he puts me in trouble in some situations, I would like to do him a favor in a professional manner (like promotion/merit certificate) and an official manner. Please advise if there is a better way to do so. Thanks in advance.

As he really does not bother about monetary gains, because during an informal chat in a coffee session, I asked him, "Where do you want to stand next/two years later from now?" Immediately, he replied, "He wants to lead top management people." His thoughts are also healthy, positive, and he wants to do some good things for society/underprivileged people.

Regards,
Srinivasan K

If promotion is not possible, you can provide him with special projects (of his interest) that he can handle alone or as a team lead for a small team. Take care that it doesn't demotivate others. If he's interested in charity, as you say, maybe you can give him 2 hours off every week to work with them or provide him with a monetary reward that is directly donated to his favorite charity.

Allow him to attend any training programs that fit in with his potential level and goals.

There are various ways to appreciate and motivate a team member. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Give him a holiday trip.
2. As you mentioned, he is interested in leading top management, but at the same time, I am very sure he is not aware of the challenges for that particular profile. You can always arrange a session (informal, like dinner or coffee) with prominent senior people to gain some insights and exposure.
3. He seems to be a bright person, so you can arrange some certification or training for him, which will help him groom himself.

These are just a few ideas that you can apply accordingly.

Hi,

How to handle a brilliant team member, as this person (22 years old male) is too good at all tasks, and I couldn't identify any weaknesses in him.

Is your job fixing weaknesses in candidates, or do you think you are an expert in all things? Just kidding. I did not understand the meaning of the sentence you wrote. Why would you like to handle a brilliant team member? It's better to leave them alone and give them the extra recognition they deserve over others.