In today’s workplace, success isn’t just about what you know, it’s about how you connect. The most impactful professionals aren’t just skilled; they’re Connected. They build trust, foster collaboration, and create environments where people feel valued and heard.

In Be the Unicorn, William Vanderbloemen describes “The Connected” as one of the rare traits that sets exceptional talent apart. These individuals don’t just communicate, they build bridges. They’re the ones who bring teams together, smooth over tensions, and make work feel more human.

At Hire Up, we’ve seen how this trait transforms workplaces. A Connected employee doesn’t just fill a role, they elevate it. They’re the ones who check in on a colleague after a tough meeting, who remember the little things, and who make others feel like they belong. That kind of presence can shift a team’s dynamic, boost morale, and even improve retention.

When we evaluate candidates, we look for signs of connection. Not just in how they speak, but in how they listen. Do they show empathy? Do they build relationships that last? Do they make others better by being part of the team?

Because here’s the truth: technical skills can be taught. But the ability to connect, that’s innate. And it’s often the difference between a good hire and a truly exceptional one.

Let’s Find Your Unicorn

If you’re an employer looking to build a team of high-impact professionals, we encourage you to think beyond the traditional checklist of qualifications. Ask yourself: Is this someone who’s Connected? Because that one trait could make all the difference.

At Hire Up, we specialize in identifying and placing candidates who embody the traits outlined in Be the Unicorn, and being Connected is one of the most transformative. We don’t just match resumes to job descriptions. We look for the spark that brings people together.