Hiring the right candidate can be challenging. When looking for the next star employee for your company or organization, let me give you some reasons to consider an atypical employee – namely the emotionally damaged individual.

1. These individuals go above and beyond in all circumstances, seeking acceptance at nearly any cost.
2. They are problem-solvers; having years of experience in developing their own coping mechanisms and facing obstacles, they develop resilience and can usually tackle problems others can’t.
3. They will shine under any small amount of praise or affirmation as this has been a novelty in their lives..
4. Even when they are due and deserving of a monetary raise, their low self-worth will keep them too hesitant to ask.
5. Interpersonal relationships with this employee are typically strong. Most, having felt hurt and rejection of their own, will have an innate need to help and be there for coworkers. (Conversely, those who have experienced more trauma will likely work quietly and efficiently so you barely notice them.)
6. They’ve learned to hide negative emotions rather than expressing them outwardly like their mentally-healthy counterparts. You don’t have to worry about them responding in anger or crying in a meeting (but you may hear them cry quietly in the bathroom).
7. Even if these individuals are presented with a better job opportunity or are unsatisfied with the position, their self-doubt, anxiety, and hesitancy to change will keep them from taking that leap. This ensures low turnover for your organization.

*I should note that in return for this excellent employee you should expect to provide mental health insurance coverage and allow occasional extended lunch breaks or early departure from work to attend therapy appointments, but don’t worry – these accommodations will likely cause guilt in the individual leading to more productivity in the rest of the work hours.