EP128 – Using the Working Genius Model to Build Better MSP Teams – with Chris Cooke

Chris joins Daniel and Adam to discuss Patrick Lencioni's Working Genius assessment, a 40-question framework about where people get energy and joy at work, contrasting it with tools like Myers-Briggs and DISC (communication preference). He explains the WIDGET model: Wonder (identify gaps), Invention (generate ideas), Discernment (judge ideas), Galvanizing (rally action), Enablement (help others move work forward), and Tenacity (drive to completion), plus how each person has two geniuses, two competencies, and two frustrations. They cover applying the model in MSPs to improve role fit, career progression (e.g., L1 vs escalations, sales vs sales management), meeting focus (strategy vs tactics), recruitment language, and reducing burnout through intentional time spent in frustration areas.

00:00 Introductions and Banter

00:23 Why Working Genius

02:08 WIDGET Overview

02:32 Wonder and Invention

03:18 Discernment and Galvanizing

04:13 Enablement and Tenacity

05:45 Genius Competency Frustration

07:50 Applying it to Meetings

09:17 Business Gaps and Stages

10:25 Every Job Uses All Six

12:04 Role Fit Sales Example

14:37 Technicians Need Clarity

15:07 Clarity Versus Escalations

15:50 Valuing Level One Talent

17:06 Career Paths and Intentionality

18:17 Time Blocking for Strengths

19:46 Hiring Amid Talent Shortage