Five things I look for in intelligence analysts

Having worked as both an analyst and and intelligence leader, I’ve had the opportunity to hire analysts at various levels, from junior to principal positions. Beyond analytical skills and experience, I believe there are certain qualities that set exceptional analysts apart. Here are five key traits I look for:

1. Tenacity 

The best analysts are those who don't give up when faced with complex problems or obstacles. They persistently dig deeper, follow leads, and don’t stop until they’ve uncovered the necessary information. This quality ensures that they can handle challenging tasks and see them through to completion, regardless of the difficulties they encounter along the way. 

2. Boldness 

Being bold is essential for intelligence analysts. They must be willing to take calculated risks and make decisions based on incomplete information. Bold analysts are not afraid to voice their insights and stand by their conclusions, even when they go against the prevailing opinions. This confidence is vital in an environment where quick, decisive action can make a significant difference.

3. Initiative

Initiative is another key trait I look for. Analysts who take the initiative are proactive in seeking out new information, identifying potential threats, and proposing solutions. They don't wait for tasks to be assigned; instead, they look for ways to add value and improve processes. This proactive approach often leads to innovative solutions and keeps the team ahead of potential issues.

 

4. Sociability

I’ve always found that intel people who are sociable can build strong relationships within their teams and with external stakeholders. They have excellent communication skills, can convey complex information in an understandable way, and are approachable and easy to work with. This ability to connect with others ensures smooth collaboration and fosters a positive working environment.

5. Vision

Finally, vision is a key quality. The ability to think outside the box and develop new methods or strategies is invaluable. Analysts with vision can adapt to changing situations and come up with creative solutions to problems. This forward-thinking mindset helps the team stay ahead of emerging threats and continuously improve their analytical processes.

I totally get that some might disagree with these traits, but in my experience, the best intelligence teams I’ve been with have been stacked with these people! What traits do you like to see in analysts?