"How can I build a balanced and effective team to achieve my business goals?"

As leaders, we all face a familiar challenge: building a team with the right mix of skills to achieve big goals. The problem? Many tools we’ve used to tackle this have been complicated, expensive, or not built with business in mind. Enter The 6 Types of Working Genius, a practical and refreshing framework developed by Patrick Lencioni that helps leaders like you assemble and empower effective teams.  So here’s how it works and why it could transform how you approach teamwork.

The Six Types of Working Genius

Every project or goal requires six distinct types of genius, each representing a key phase of the process. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Wonder
   It all starts with curiosity. The Wonder genius asks, “What if?” or “Why not?” These are the big thinkers who spot opportunities for improvement or innovation.
2. Invention
   Next comes the “aha!” moment. This genius thrives on coming up with creative solutions and new ideas to tackle the challenges Wonder has identified.
3. Discernment
   Critical thinking takes center stage here. This genius evaluates ideas, asking, “Will it work?” or “How can we improve it?” They refine ideas to make sure they’re solid.
4. Galvanizing
   Now it’s time to inspire action! The Galvanizing genius rallies the team, building excitement and energy to move forward with the plan.
5. Enablement
   Action begins here. This genius focuses on providing support, resources, and collaboration to help the team move forward effectively.
6. Tenacity
   Finally, the closer. This genius is all about following through, solving problems, and pushing until the goal is fully accomplished.

Why All Six Geniuses Matter

Every genius plays a vital role, and the magic happens when they work together. A team missing one or more of these types can get stuck—whether it’s in brainstorming ideas, building momentum, or getting things done.

The Working Genius model also stands apart from other assessments like strengths tests. While those tools help individuals understand themselves, Working Genius focuses on what the team needs at each stage of a project. It’s not just about identifying strengths—it’s about using them in the right sequence to succeed.

The Flow of Genius in Action

Think of the six types as steps in a process:

1. Wonder and Invention drive the ideation phase, generating ideas.
2. Discernment and Galvanizing are crucial during the activation phase, refining the idea and rallying the team.
3. Enablement and Tenacity shine in the implementation phase, ensuring the work gets done and the goal is achieved.

In most teams, you’ll need more people with Enablement and Tenacity than Wonder and Invention, especially during execution. But without the big-picture dreamers at the start, the process can’t begin. Each genius has its moment to lead, and understanding when to let one take a backseat is just as important as knowing when to step forward.

Bringing the Geniuses to Life

Imagine your team as a group of superheroes, each with unique abilities:

• The Wonders are the dreamers who ask, “Why not?”
• The Inventors solve problems and create solutions.
• The Discerners are your quality checkers, making sure ideas are practical.
• The Galvanizers energize and align the team.
• The Enablers quietly support everyone, ensuring plans come to life.
• The Tenacious finishers bring it all home, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

When every member understands their genius and plays to their strengths, your team becomes unstoppable. It’s not just about having good ideas; it’s about having the right mix of talents to make them real.

Why the Working Genius Model is a Game-Changer

This framework helps you, as a leader, see the bigger picture. Imagine knowing exactly who to lean on for big ideas and who to rely on to get things done. Instead of frustration over differing work styles, this model fosters collaboration and mutual respect.

It transforms the way teams operate, moving from a “one-size-fits-all” approach to one that feels tailor-made for your unique mix of talent. The result? A happier, more motivated team and a workplace that feels more productive and rewarding.

So, what’s your genius? Take time to explore this model with your team. Together, you can unlock new levels of efficiency, satisfaction, and success.

#Leadership #TeamBuilding #WorkingGenius #SmallBusinessLeadership