This section describes the modules and values in greater detail and explains how and why they apply to a Pathfinder. Of course, there are many more attributes that describe the human condition but it is these modules/values that, in combination, uniquely define and characterise the Pathfinder.

1. Approach

This module covers how the Pathfinder approaches opportunities and challenges and, through its values, defines the unique attributes of a Pathfinder. This approach is a combination of personal agility, being self-directed, and thriving on ambiguity.

Faced with opportunities and challenges Pathfinders do not accept the status quo, rather they innovate to find a new way, creating a path for others to follow. A path for the benefit of the whole, not the self.

When in situations without precedent, Pathfinders need to be agile and not just deal with ambiguity, but actually find a way to thrive within it.

Not being told what to do and operating without a playbook of any kind, the Pathfinder also needs to be self-directed. Specifically, Pathfinders are able to fully engage in tasks/roles largely, or even entirely, motivated by meeting a need. Broadly, Pathfinders see a need and jump in and figure things out as they go.

In contrast, for non-Pathfinders the raw need isn't enough. There is a barrier at varying levels of consciousness which is sometimes expressed [consciously] with the concern that the iterative “figure it out as you go” approach seems wasteful, regardless of whether there is a present alternative.

In addition to the raw need not being sufficient motivation, non-Pathfinders also need to clearly see the fit between the need, their specific competence, and the likelihood of their contributing toward excellence. The path for non-Pathfinders is roughly: see a need, wait for clear alignment between that need and their personal competence, and wait to see a direct path toward success. When pushed, non-Pathfinders will engage but only on those parts of the journey that provide clarity in those dimensions.

2. Motivation

Successful Pathfinders recognize that the rewards they pursue are on the other side of many unknowns and long hours – and therefore they need to be motivated by deeper sources than near-term financial reward or the forthcoming acclaim of peers. This is expressed through the value ‘intrinsic motivation’ and is often manifested in the need to build something and/or be part of something bigger than the extrinsic motivation of financial rewards.

This module addresses the sense of urgency (‘action oriented’) that a candidate brings, in addition to their work ethic and tenacity.

3. Perspective

This module addresses the skills related to the way Pathfinders perceive the world – how they process information and what they value.

The approach of the Pathfinder is reflected in a generative ‘curiosity’ that can seek and find new approaches when plans don’t work as intended (i.e., most of the time). This module also includes one of the ‘big five’ domains of personality - the quality of ‘openness [1]’, which is the degree someone is receptive to new ideas and/or experiences.

Similarly, the way applicants perceive failure – either as something shameful to be hidden or as opportunities to learn and ‘fail forward’ - is another aspect of a Pathfinder’s perspective. This pragmatism also covers engaging problems from a systems perspective.

The quality of ‘positivity’ is the final dimension, included because of the importance of Pathfinders being able to maintain the energy and optimism needed to push through failure into the unknown.

4. Relationships

The final module addresses dimensions related to how a Pathfinder relates to people and prioritizes relationships – because the long-term success of a Pathfinder requires both starting and maintaining vibrant relationships, not exploiting contacts for short-term gains. This module includes dimensions such as being consistent and confident, i.e., having a sense of gravitas that is key to establishing trusting relationships. Additionally, the assessment probes the level of prioritizing people as well as their comfort with communication.

This includes having practical humility. Pathfinders operate within contexts of limited resources and lack of organizational structure, meaning that they must be willing to ‘muck-in’ by undertaking tasks those more entitled may feel are beneath them. Additionally, Pathfinders must be willing to help others along the journey.

Many people are attracted by the degrees of freedom/latitude afforded to Pathfinders in their myriad roles. However, that freedom comes with a level of responsibility and accountability some will find uncomfortable. The final value ‘responsible’ assesses people for their ability to manage that responsibility. The associated accountability is assessed implicitly within this value as well as within ‘consistent’.