"How can I improve team performance by leveraging individual strengths at work?"
Have you ever wondered why some team members light up when tackling certain tasks, while others seem to struggle? Patrick Lencioni’s Working Genius model offers a simple yet powerful framework to understand these dynamics. According to Lencioni, “Understanding your areas of working genius is not just a tool for productivity, it’s a path to personal satisfaction.”
The model identifies six unique types of “genius” people bring to their work: Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity. By focusing on what people naturally excel at and enjoy, you can transform your team’s performance—and everyone’s experience of work.
Here’s how to put the Working Genius model to work in your business:
The first step is simple: figure out what each team member’s working genius is. Are they the creative Inventor who thrives on new ideas? Or the Tenacity-driven closer who ensures every project is finished strong? Each genius plays a unique role.
As Lencioni puts it, “The most successful organizations are the ones that identify and utilize the diverse genius of all their members.” Take the time to assess and understand these strengths—it’s a game-changer.
Once you know each person’s genius, the next step is to align their strengths with their responsibilities. This creates a win-win: people love doing work they’re good at, and the business reaps the rewards of higher productivity.
For example, give a Wonderer time to explore big-picture questions, or ask a Galvanizer to rally the team for a new initiative. When tasks align with talents, everyone feels more energized and effective.
Every genius brings something valuable to the table, and teams thrive when these contributions are recognized. Celebrate the diversity of strengths in your team—whether it’s the creative spark of an Inventor or the steady reliability of someone with Tenacity.
This kind of appreciation fosters collaboration, mutual respect, and a positive team vibe that keeps people engaged and motivated.
Good communication is the backbone of any strong team, and the Working Genius model helps take it to the next level. When you understand each team member’s genius, you can tailor how you communicate, delegate tasks, and solve problems together.
This shared understanding helps eliminate frustration and improves teamwork, as each person’s unique perspective is valued and leveraged.
Conflict happens, even in the best teams. But with the Working Genius framework, you can tackle disagreements in a constructive way. Understanding each person’s genius helps uncover the root causes of conflict and provides a roadmap for resolving issues.
When everyone feels seen and understood, it’s easier to find solutions that work for everyone.
Leadership starts with self-awareness. Take the time to understand your own Working Genius. What energizes you? What drains you? When you know your strengths, you can lead with confidence and authenticity.
Plus, modeling this self-awareness encourages your team to do the same, creating a culture where everyone plays to their strengths.
By embracing Patrick Lencioni’s Working Genius model, you can unlock your team’s full potential. This isn’t just about getting more done—it’s about creating an environment where people thrive, feel valued, and love the work they do.
As Lencioni wisely says, “Getting the right people in the right seats on the bus is more important than where the bus is going.” Focus on what makes your team members shine, and success will follow.
#Leadership #SmallBusinessSuccess #TeamworkTips #WorkingGenius
