Genius-Makers: How to Produce More with Less
In the current competitive business environment, the ability to produce more with less has become an indispensable skill for leaders. In “Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter,” Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown delve into the distinguishing characteristics that set genius-makers apart from traditional geniuses in leadership. Through rigorous interviews and assessments of over 150 leaders, their research shines a light on the stark differences in mindset that influence team performance and productivity.
Genius vs. Genius-Maker: Harnessing Collective Intelligence
The findings by Wiseman and McKeown highlight two critical insights: the value of accessing collective intelligence and the capacity to utilize that intelligence effectively. It is not the quantity of knowledge a leader possesses, but the ability to draw upon and utilize the diverse intelligence of their team that truly counts. Genius-makers are adept at extracting and applying their team members’ capabilities to achieve remarkable successes.
Those fortunate to work with genius-makers often report contributing far more than expected—sometimes even 120 percent of their energy and talents—because they are constantly encouraged to push their boundaries and “get smarter.” In contrast, working under non-genius-makers typically results in employees feeling unmotivated, offering only a fraction of their potential.
The Multiplier Effect: Achieving More with Existing Resources
Traditional approaches to addressing productivity challenges often involve expanding the workforce to boost output. Genius-makers, however, take a more nuanced and cost-effective approach by leveraging the existing potential within their teams. They recognize that most workers possess untapped capabilities and simply need the right leadership to unlock their full potential.
Wiseman and McKeown categorize leaders into two distinct camps: multipliers and diminishers. Leadership effectiveness sits on a continuum, with some leaders diminishing unintentionally. Fortunately, with the right mindset and improved communication tools, many can pivot towards becoming successful multipliers.
Two Divergent Beliefs: Multipliers vs. Diminishers
The belief system driving leadership behavior is essential for understanding how to cultivate genius-maker qualities:
- Diminishers’ Belief: These leaders assume their teams cannot succeed without their input, frequently stepping in to provide solutions and overshadowing their team’s potential.
- Multipliers’ Belief: These leaders trust their teams’ intelligence and encourage them to independently discover solutions, fostering a culture of empowerment and innovation.
By aligning these insights with the KASH Method (Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits) leadership coaching method, leaders can better understand how to develop into effective genius-makers:
- Knowledge and Insight: Facilitate knowledge-sharing and encourage open dialogue, allowing teams to solve problems collaboratively and creatively.
- Skill Enhancement: Support skill development initiatives that enable team members to surpass their current capabilities.
- Attitude of Empowerment: Develop a trusting environment where team accomplishments are celebrated, boosting confidence and encouraging risk-taking.
- Habitual Team Development: Engage in practices that consistently challenge the team to excel and innovate from within.
Reflections on Genius-Making Leadership
In my experience as a corporate coach, I’ve encountered both natural supporters and leaders who unintentionally diminish their teams’ potential. Reflect on your work environment: Is your leader fostering a multiplier or diminisher atmosphere? Are they consistently working to amplify your abilities, or are they inadvertently holding you back?
Your feedback could unlock valuable insights for others aspiring to become genius-makers in their organizations. I encourage you to share your experiences in the comments—let’s explore strategies that elevate leadership effectiveness together.
Creator of the KASHBOX: Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits
Helping You Realize Your Potential
I help people discover their potential, expand and develop the skills and attitudes necessary to achieve a higher degree of personal and professional success and create a plan that enables them to balance the profit motives of their business with the personal motives of their lives.
