Key Theme #2: Individualization

This is the part of me that, while aware of labels/types/categories of people, believes that the differences between individuals (even within one type) is greater than the difference between types. I feel that person is defined by the nuances of their character, not the broad category into which they are lumped. It allows me to personalize my approach to helping different students and - if given the chance - to managing different employees. Even though my Ideation talent leads me to seek out patterns and make connections, this talent balances against that and prevents me from making overly broad assumptions.

The first book in this series, "First, Break All the Rules" is all about this talent. It shows that the quality of the front-line managers of a company determine its success in keeping and growing great workforces and, as a result, its overall success as well. It also shows that Individualization is the most important factor in successful managing, breaking down the manager's role into four responsibilities and demonstrating why each relies heavily on individualized management. I have long felt that creating a work environment that fosters individual and group excellence is my real calling in [work] life, so knowing that I have at least the *potential* to be a great manager is reassuring to me.

I derive great pleasure from sharing what expertise I have with people who are likely to benefit from it, and this talent helps me, both in the execution of that sharing and in determining whether or not I have succeeded. While it allows me to tune into the needs or moods of certain individuals better than some people do, it doesn't necessarily mean that I know how to express my own moods and needs to others. In fact, that is a weakness of mine and I am working on that.

To build upon this talent, I need to become an expert in describing my own strengths and style. That is a matter of both introspection and communication, and this blog should exercise both. I would also benefit from a job with supervising and/or teaching responsibilities - fortunately, I resume tutoring this week and am really looking forward to working with my first new student in several months. As for the supervising… hopefully a wise and creative hiring manager out there recognizes talent when they see it!