In this conversation, Gigi and Nicole tackle the vital topics of employee engagement and change management. They discuss the concerning statistic that only 31% of employees report feeling engaged, highlighting the importance of effective communication and understanding individual strengths during times of change. Their dialogue underscores the need for leaders to embrace diverse perspectives and emotional responses, advocating for an inclusive and strategic approach to change management that brings all employees along the journey.

In this conversation, Gigi and Nicole delve into the themes of individuality in inspiration and motivation, the application of the Kolbe assessment in organizational settings, and the critical role of people-centric change management. They explore communication styles, learning modalities, and the power of leveraging diverse strengths to build effective teams. Emphasizing tailored communication and a deep understanding of individual ‘doing’ strengths, they highlight strategies to navigate change successfully in today’s complex and evolving world.

I’m Gigi, and I’m a 2493¹

My initiating strength is to innovate. However, I like to refer to myself as a Change Enthusiast. Why? Because I not only embrace moments of change as high-potential challenges, I initiate change. You can regularly find me jumping into times of uncertainties. When ideas surface, I seize the moment. I don’t wait, or debate. I am quick to make decisions and can do so without having tangible evidence. Over time, I’ve developed a lot of patience as it’s tough for me not to step in when others seem to be dragging something out.

My strengths allow me to take on future-oriented challenges. I like to lead the way to visionary possibilities. To take on the toughest “what if” and “how might we” questions and turn them into productive adventures. I focus on the big picture, often abbreviating information in my communications to get right to the point. And I help others visualize things relying on my ability to portray ideas through virtual presentations, portraying things symbolically, and sketches which capture the essence of the situation.

I embrace my natural strengths and have learned how I will and won’t naturally act, which includes adjusting and targeting my top priorities helping me achieve the best possible results. Diving in a bit further to my Kolbe strength modes:

Fact Finder 2 – When it comes to gathering and sharing information, I simplify. I put an emphasis on bottom-line options by distilling information and condensing data. For me, “it’s not about perfection, it’s about direction!”

Follow Thru 4 – When it comes to organizing, I maintain. I maintain order by identifying inconsistencies and coordinating with others. This often leads to blending different approaches to guide teams through change facilitating involvement, creating connections, and ensuring smooth transitions.

Quick Start 9 – When it comes to dealing with risks and uncertainty, I innovate. This is where my change enthusiast comes alive! I am known to initiate change, promote alternatives, and originate options. I welcome others’ input and often start by facilitating brainstorming sessions. I’m a natural storyteller but I don’t expect me to make the same presentation more than once as I often ad lib and improvise.

Implementor 3 – When it comes to handling space and tangibles, I envision. I visualize possibilities and conceptualize what could be. You can always count on me to use whiteboarding, presentation or props when diagnosing organizational issues or identifying improvement opportunities.

It’s natural for me to start the day by skimming the details, eliminating the noise from my to-do list and getting to work on my top priorities. I’m known for my communication, facilitation, and design thinking skills, adept at innovating and collaborating with diverse global audiences.

1. My 2493 Kolbe A^TM Index Kolbe.com | Home of the Kolbe A Index  ︎

I am Nicole, and I am an 8715¹

This combination of my strengths means that I am a natural strategic planner. I am “excellent in situations that require strategic organization of information.”¹ I “set priorities and put them into appropriate sequences.” My “talent with both strategies and tactics make me essential to any massive effort.”

Knowing and understanding my natural strengths helps me handle stress and control outcomes.

Fact Finder 8 – When it comes to gathering and sharing information, I specify. I naturally begin with research, considering historical evidence, to develop complex strategies. My strength lies in questioning frequently and thoroughly. I am strongest when I do not have to make snap judgements or answer off the top of my head. Clients really appreciate my attention to detail as they know I have left nothing out.

Follow Thru 7 – When it comes to organizing, I systematize. I naturally create the plan, distinguish patterns, and bring focus and closure. My strength lies in coordinating and integrating activities. I am strongest when I do not have to take shortcuts or put up with too many interruptions. Alas, disrupting my schedule has been known to throw my whole day off kilter. 

Quick Start 1 – When it comes to dealing with risks and uncertainty, I stabilize. I naturally minimize risk factors and reduce unexpected events. My strength lies in avoiding chaos and reducing the chance of making mistakes. While I enjoy brainstorming sessions, I know that I am strongest when I do not have to race the clock, experiment or work with ambiguities. Sure, I can wing it, but it’s not always pretty.

Implementor 5 – When it comes to handling space and tangibles, I restore. I naturally keep things working the way they should and remove obstacles – both real and imagined. My strength lies in dealing with both the abstract and the concrete.  I am strongest when I do not have to draw conclusions without a walk-through or present information without props. Having the right tools for the job is important to me. Clients count on me as the liaison to communicate between those who imagine and those who build.

I am an 8715 and my forte lies in “combining my sense of history with a talent for seeing themes. I figure out the background of problems and the steps necessary to solve them.”

1. My 8715 Kolbe A^TM Index Kolbe.com | Home of the Kolbe A Index  ︎