A Leadership Lesson Learned On My Multi-State Tour
Join me on a journey where I discovered the true power of recognizing and managing each team member as an individual.
I recently had the privilege of visiting our stores across Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina. This multi-state tour wasn't about logistics and inventory; it was a deep dive into the heart of Carter Myers Automotive: our people. What I discovered was both inspiring and fundamentally simple: the key to unlocking employee potential lies in recognizing and managing each person as an individual.
The tour aimed to unpack the results of our recent employee engagement survey and help managers understand them, select focus areas, and plan action items. We often talk about "employee engagement" as if it's a one-size-fits-all solution. But the truth is that each team member is unique, driven by different motivations, gifted with different strengths, and fueled by different passions.
Key Takeaway: Manage The Team And The Individual
One of the most powerful insights from my trip was the realization that effective management hinges on understanding these individual nuances.
For example:
How does each person want to be recognized for their contributions?
What are their aspirations for growth and development?
What unique strengths do they bring to the table that no one else can replicate?
These aren't just abstract questions. They are the core of building a strong, motivated team. When we take the time to understand the individual, we move beyond simply managing tasks and step into the realm of developing people. This shift requires a different skillset, which I learned from my journey as a manager.
Being a high-performing individual contributor doesn't automatically translate into being a successful manager. While technical expertise is valuable, the art of management lies in understanding human dynamics, fostering collaboration, and, perhaps most importantly, inspiring others.
Inspiration is the lifeblood of any successful team, the spark that ignites passion, fuels creativity, and drives us to achieve more than we ever thought possible. As managers, we have a profound responsibility to inspire those around us, whether they're working in a bustling dealership, a quiet accounting office, or a repair shop across Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina (and soon-to-be Maryland). This means creating an environment where individuals feel valued, understood, and empowered to use their unique talents. It means recognizing their accomplishments, supporting their growth, and helping them see the impact of their contributions.
Individuality In The Bible
This principle of individual uniqueness isn't just a modern management theory. It's a timeless truth woven throughout the fabric of history and even found within the pages of the Bible. Consider Solomon's Temple's construction, a magnificent artistry and engineering feat. The Bible highlights the diverse skills and talents of the artisans involved, each contributing their expertise to the masterpiece (1 Kings 7). From the skilled bronze worker Huram to the various craftsmen specializing in gold, silver, and wood, each individual played a crucial role, demonstrating the power of diverse talents working in harmony.
This theme of individual gifts and callings continues into the New Testament. In his writings, Paul emphasizes the concept of spiritual gifts, highlighting how each person has unique abilities bestowed upon them to build up the body of Christ (Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12). Just as in the construction of the Temple, the early church thrived because individuals recognized and utilized their distinct gifts for the common good.
These examples remind us that celebrating individuality is not just a good management practice; it’s a fundamental principle that resonates throughout history. By embracing the unique strengths and aspirations of each individual on our team, we create a more engaged and productive workforce. The power of one, when understood and nurtured, is truly transformative.
Reflection Exercise: Understanding the Unique Individuals Around You
Take a moment to reflect on the power of individual differences. Think about five people you're connected with, either at work or in your personal life. For each person, consider what makes them unique. What are their strengths, their passions, and their preferred ways of working? What motivates them? What are their goals?
After reflecting on each individual, consider these questions:
How can I better leverage their unique strengths and talents?
What steps can I take to create an environment where they feel valued and understood?
How can I support their growth and development in a way that aligns with their individual aspirations?
By taking the time to understand the individuals around us, we can unlock their potential and create a more collaborative, supportive, and ultimately more successful environment for everyone.