No two people are alike. Even if you compare one person’s fingerprint with another they will be different, one person’s personality to another, it would be different, one person’s specific likes and dislikes, it would be different. Organizations are similar. They are comprised of people who have different traits, characteristics and strengths. The success of the organization is contingent upon the mix of people – the confluence of strengths and values mixed with those who are great “doers” and those who are great visionaries.
Every army needs a mix of both, the foot soldiers who physically engage in battle day to day and the generals who can oversee them. If you have an army with only soldiers there will be bedlam with no strategic direction and oversight. Who would oversee the overall battle and determine which moves need to be made in order for there to be a build up for victory?
A general without soldiers is a battle that is non-existent. Generals may be the chief strategists and even be the cause for fighting, however there will be nothing gained without soldiers who can execute these plans. Just imagine a general shouting, “Run up the hill!” to no one actually in the field to do the running.
Just because you have a mix of foot soldiers and visionaries, does not guarantee organizational success. Joe may be a great strategist, however he can be horrible at aligning teams. Sarah, may be wonderful at inputting financial data, however she cannot follow direction. The mix of the “right” people in the right jobs with clear expectations and accountability ensures success.
Here are some tips:
1) Appreciate everyone on your team.
A simple “thank you” or “great job” doesn’t get you far. “Thank you’s” are cheap and easy to say. If you have a powerful desire to manage your team and create a motivational environment, you’ll need a lot more than a “thank you”. Have your comments mean something. When formulating how you will verbalize your appreciation, consider utilizing the following formula:
• Details - what action was done, how they went above and beyond, how they united groups, etc.
• Jot it - write down and keep it as a record.
• Intention – what is your intention by communicating this praise?
• Environment – where do you want to give the praise? What is the proper environment? E.g. at an all-hands meeting, one-on-one weekly check-in.
• Say it - communicate your praise with enthusiasm and an eye towards developing the person.
2) Examine
You may have a great visionary who is not so great at the details. You may have someone who is great at handling the day to day and not a great visionary. You need a combination of both to succeed. Make sure you are examining each person’s strengths and ensure the role they are in sets them up for the greatest success.
3) Develop talents
Develop individual and group talents accordingly. It’s not enough to simply know someone is strong in their job; it’s critical to spend time in developing the person’s talents. The more an employee feels you devote consideration and attention to them and are dedicated to their development, the greater chances for them to succeed.
4) Constantly recruit
You never know when you will need to hire. You just don’t want to hire anyone you want the person who will be the perfect fit. Finding foot soldiers or visionaries takes time, effort and energy. Why wait until you need to fill a position to recruit and then sift through hundreds of resumes? Recruit now. Scope out the best of the best. Take them out for coffee or a meal. The least that will happen is you’ll meet a good person that you can network with in the future.
When you align foot soldiers and visionaries you get the right people in the right jobs performing at a high level. The success of your organization will soar and your people will be sought after and recognized both inside and outside of your organization.
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