6 types of working genius summary

3 min read 05-12-2024

Meta Description: Discover your Working Genius! This summary of the 6 Working Genius types—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Enablement, Galvanizing, and Tenacity—helps you understand your strengths and how to best utilize them in the workplace and beyond. Learn how to leverage your genius and build a high-performing team.

The concept of "Working Genius" is a powerful framework developed by Patrick Lencioni and the team at The Table Group. It helps individuals understand their natural strengths and weaknesses in the workplace. By identifying your Working Genius, you can better leverage your talents and build more effective teams. This summary explores the six distinct types of Working Genius.

Understanding Your Working Genius

Before delving into each type, it's crucial to grasp the core principle: everyone possesses two Working Geniuses. These are the areas where you effortlessly excel, finding your work naturally energizing and fulfilling. Conversely, everyone also has two Working Genius frustrations. These areas drain your energy and leave you feeling stressed and ineffective. Recognizing both is key to maximizing your potential and minimizing your struggles.

The 6 Types of Working Genius

Here's a breakdown of the six Working Genius types:

1. Wonder

What it is: A natural curiosity and a love of exploring possibilities and asking "what if?" questions. People with Wonder as a Working Genius are innovative and creative thinkers. They excel at brainstorming and generating new ideas.
Example: A marketing manager brainstorming innovative campaigns, always looking for new and creative approaches to reach their target audience.
Frustration: They may struggle with the details of execution. They're often more interested in generating ideas than implementing them.

2. Invention

What it is: The ability to take ideas and transform them into tangible realities. Invention geniuses are practical and resourceful, skilled at developing innovative solutions.
Example: A software developer turning a concept into a fully functional application.
Frustration: They can get bogged down in the details and lose sight of the big picture. They might find brainstorming sessions frustrating if they aren't focused on concrete outcomes.

3. Discernment

What it is: The capacity to analyze information, identify the best course of action, and make sound judgments. Discernment geniuses are excellent problem-solvers.
Example: A project manager carefully evaluating different options and selecting the most effective approach to meet project goals.
Frustration: They may struggle with ambiguity or situations requiring rapid decision-making based on incomplete data. The constant need to make decisions can lead to exhaustion.

4. Enablement

What it is: The ability to create supportive and productive environments for others to succeed. Enablement geniuses are excellent team players, fostering collaboration and helping others reach their full potential.
Example: A team leader providing resources, training, and support to their team members.
Frustration: They can become overwhelmed by chaos and lack of structure. Micromanaging might be a symptom of struggling in this area.

5. Galvanizing

What it is: The gift of inspiring and motivating others to achieve shared goals. Galvanizing geniuses are natural leaders who excel at building enthusiasm and commitment within a team.
Example: A charismatic CEO rallying their employees around a new vision for the company.
Frustration: They can become frustrated by apathy or a lack of buy-in from others. Detailed planning and execution might feel tedious.

6. Tenacity

What it is: The ability to persevere through challenges and obstacles, refusing to give up until a task is completed. Tenacity geniuses are determined and resilient, crucial for navigating setbacks.
Example: A salesperson overcoming repeated rejections to finally close a major deal.
Frustration: They can be easily discouraged by distractions or a lack of clearly defined goals. Impatience may result when others are slow to execute.

Applying Your Working Genius

Understanding your Working Genius is not just about self-discovery; it's about building better teams and achieving greater success. By leveraging your strengths and addressing your frustrations, you can:

Improve individual performance: Focus your energy on tasks that align with your Working Genius, boosting productivity and job satisfaction.
Build stronger teams: Assemble teams with a diverse range of Working Geniuses, ensuring that all crucial aspects of a project are addressed effectively.
Enhance communication: Understand how your Working Genius influences your communication style and learn to work effectively with others who have different strengths.
Delegate effectively: Assign tasks based on team members' Working Geniuses, maximizing their strengths and minimizing their frustrations.

By understanding the six types of Working Genius, you can unlock your full potential and build a more successful and fulfilling life, both professionally and personally. Take the time to discover your own Working Genius—it's a transformative journey. Remember to learn more about the accompanying assessment to find your unique combination.