[ysh4u]

Look at what they've done. A portfolio, a (completed) project, a (completed) website can say a lot about their attitude and approach to things.

I'd say for someone to really fit your bill (talented/ambitious), they would have to have some tangible deliverable accomplishments somewhere. Not just talk, grades, etc.

Look for what they've done in their community. If they're young (i.e. from college) those that excel at communication are usually pretty engaged in the community and have held some leadership positions. Resident Life? Coaching? TA?