The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni

Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars 

Duration: 04:11:00
Published: September 2022

The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni was recommended by a couple of colleagues. Because it was a relatively short book I chose to consume it via audio during a week's commute to and from work. The premise of the working genius model is that each person has natural talents and gifts and when they are put in roles that accentuate these talents, they are more successful in, energetic about, and fulfilled in the work they perform. Their non-dominate talents tend to deplete one's energy. The six working types make the acronym WIDGET. They are: 

• Wonder
• Invention
• Discernment
• Galvanizing
• Enablement
• Tenacity

Lencioni presents the model and the resulting working types in the form a fables, or short stories, as a creative way to define and illustrate the model. Readers can also elect to take the working genius assessment for about $25, or three fancy Starbucks drinks, to determine where you fall. The results are delivered in an easy to read PDF report and outline what your two working genius areas are, your 2 working competencies, and your 2 working frustrations. It is recommended to take the assessment before reading the book - probably because more tenured professionals can figure out where they fall after reading the short book. 

The book, its theory, and model are all presented in an easy-to-understand format. It made for an easy listen while driving. However, if I am completely honest, at this point in my career I know myself well enough to know what fills my cup up. The gem here is learning what types of workers others are on my team so I can better relate and lean in to their strengths. 

Recommendation: Books are knowledge, and knowledge is power. I would definitely recommend this book to people who work in teams - as a career or in a volunteer role - for a resource to better understand others. And we know from another professional development book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, are better when we first seek to understand others before trying to make others understand us. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.