The definition of an organisation is an entity with a collective goal, and it’s obvious that the net result of any organisation is only the result of this collective endeavour. Everyone has an important role to play within this system, albeit small or inconsequential, because one small spark is all that is required to ignite the fire of change. It is imperative for the leadership team (especially the human resources) to identify these mavericks and provide a platform to nurture and elevate such talent.

Spark - Source FlickR MariaaaR

Who are these mavericks? These are employees brimming with ideas, and abundant in energy, passion and creativity. Most importantly, they think out of the box and beyond the perimeters of their job role.  Most successful products or services were the result of such mavericks. So whether it was the Apple iPhone that revolutionised the mobile phone industry or the Nintendo Wii that changed the way we play video games (and changed the fortunes for a fledgling Nintendo), there were mavericks behind these ideas.

Every team and function should have these mavericks, and should be given an important place in the team, especially in the decision making, irrespective of the hierarchy. Managers and others up in the hierarchy can use the help of these individuals to evaluate decisions or for coming up with solutions.

When the company is on an expansion spree or on the lookout for new markets, these mavericks can play an important role in charting out the plans. Their sense of intuition is very good, which business managers and decision makers can use in their judgment.

They can also be involved when a crisis situation arises in the organisation, and to find a way out, on the lines of a SWAT team.

These mavericks feed on motivation and energy, and can easily get disoriented or uninterested when they run out on these. Acknowledge and recognise their efforts, reward them appropriately, and keep them motivated, because for all you know, and when it matters, they could be the crucial difference.