Years ago, when we wrote our vision statement for Kocina Marketing Companies, we felt strongly that we should include our philosophy that God gave us all unique talents and gifts, and that we have an obligation to use those gifts.
So back in 2004 when one of our managers suggested that we read Now Discover Your Strengths by Buckingham and Clifton in our employee book club, it seemed like a perfect fit.
The book encourages employers to assess workers by their strengths, and not to waste time or energy trying to fix weaknesses. The philosophy has brought new focus to our entire management style.
Everyone in the company took the book’s online assessment. We each posted our top 5 strengths for everyone to see. The lists are daily reminders of each of our talents. Every new hire also takes the strengths assessment. It’s a great way for all of us to immediately appreciate what this new person may add to our company.
As a manager, these lists help me to understand the unique personalities in each of my employees. I’ve learned to appreciate them differently.
As a result, we assign tasks differently. Instead of annual reviews, where we would typically talk about what areas the person needs to improve, we now have goal meetings where we discuss how we can capitalize on each person’s unique God-given talents.
When people work within their strengths they enjoy what they do. And because of that they end up doing a great job. This becomes a Win Win Win: a win for the company, a win for the employee and a win for our clients.
