3M (MMM -1.05%) reports earnings on Thursday, and investors are hoping for some of the same positive signs they saw in the third quarter. Organic local currency growth was 5.8%, and there were continued signs that a renewed focus on R&D is paying off. 

Expecting that kind of growth might be a tall order, but if 3M is going to be more than a reliable dividend stock, investors should expect to see 4% or more in organic growth. Erin Miller sat down with Fool contributor Travis Hoium to see what he'll be watching when earnings are released.