Understanding the Working Genius Altitude Map

As I wrap up the Working Genius deep-dive series on LinkedIn, I wanted to take it one step further and apply each genius across the three phases of work:?

• Ideation
• Activation
• Implementation

Understanding where each genius fits allows you to strategically place team members where they’ll thrive and help projects move forward with more alignment and momentum.

Let’s explore how each Working Genius supports these three phases and where they fall on an “altitude map.”

Phase 1: Ideation —?25,000-30,000 feet above

This phase is where big-picture thinking and fresh perspectives begin to take shape. Team members who shine in Wonder and Invention bring essential strengths here.

• Wonder: These team members are your big-picture thinkers. They’re naturally inclined to ask, “What if?” or “Why not?” Their curiosity and insight can identify untapped opportunities and challenges that need attention.
• Invention: When it’s time to develop new solutions, those with the Invention genius come into play. They’re energized by brainstorming and creating new ideas, helping turn raw insights into practical solutions.

Phase 2: Activation —?15,000-20,000 feet above

Activation is the bridge between ideas and action. This is where Discernment and Galvanizing bring energy and focus.

• Discernment: These team members have a natural intuition for what ideas are most promising. They can assess and refine ideas, providing feedback that ensures only the most effective solutions move forward.
• Galvanizing: Once a plan is clear, those with the Galvanizing genius energize the team, rallying everyone to take action. Their enthusiasm is contagious, creating buy-in and commitment across the team.

Phase 3: Implementation —?10,000 feet to Ground-Level?

The final phase is all about execution. This is where Enablement and Tenacity geniuses keep the momentum going, ensuring ideas become reality.

• Enablement: These individuals have an innate ability to support others and remove obstacles, making it easy for the team to stay on track. They are collaborative and responsive, providing essential assistance as the work takes shape.
• Tenacity: The finishers of the team, those with the Tenacity genius are driven by completing tasks and achieving results. They’ll follow through to the very end, ensuring that the goals are met and the work is done right.

Putting It All Together: How to Use These Phases in Your Planning

As you head into quarterly or annual planning, keep these phases in mind to ensure each team member is positioned in a role where they can make the most impact.?

Consider mapping out your projects based on the phases of work and assigning responsibilities according to each person’s Working Genius. This approach not only boosts productivity but also empowers everyone to contribute their unique strengths.

Add Working Genius to Your Quarterly/Annual Planning

I'm a certified Working Genius facilitator — if you'd like to bring Working Genius to your team, your quarterly/annual planning session is the perfect time. Learn more about my workshops and request one for your team on my website.

?Working Genius Workshops

(Psst —?I'm sending out additional resources on the Altitude Map to my email subscribers tomorrow. If you're not on the list, subscribe now !)