In previous blogs, I’ve shared my own reasons for using a formal assessment system to make sure that the right people are on the bus (that’s hiring and recruitment) and that the right people are sitting in the right seats on the bus (that’s internal assignments and job descriptions). Today, I will share one of the big reasons that our organization uses the Kolbe System exclusively for these assessments: The Kolbe Continuum.
According to Kathy Kolbe, creator of the Kolbe System, “There is a major difference between the way you function when you are relaxed and at rest and the way you function when you take action. When you take action, when you strive, when you start getting things done in the way that feels most instinctive and natural to you, you do so through a mixture of four different Action Modes, with a strong likelihood of favoring one or two of these modes over the others. These Action Modes are not “personality types,” but instinct-based MO’s that can be expressed using a simple numerical system.”
Kolbe’s Continuum of Instinct-Based Action Modes
Those who favor the FACT FINDER Action Mode instinctively gather and share information. They need to investigate in depth. Are you more inclined to specify than to simplify? If so, you may favor this way of getting things done.
Those who favor the FOLLOW THRU Action Mode instinctively arrange and design. They need to seek a sense of order. Are you more inclined to systematize than to simply adapt to a given situation? If so, you may favor this modus operandi (MO).
Those who favor the QUICK START Action Mode are comfortable dealing with risk and uncertainty. They need to invent, brainstorm, and innovate. When faced with an unfamiliar circumstance, are you more inclined to improvise than to look for ways to stabilize the situation? If so, you may favor this approach to completing a task.
Those who favor the IMPLEMENTOR Action Mode are comfortable handling space and tangibles. They need to convert ideas into concrete form. Are you more inclined to build, repair, trouble-shoot and practice than you are to imagine or theorize? If so, you may favor this instinctive way of striving to complete a task.
As Kathy Kolbe is quick to point out, EACH OF THESE INSTINCTIVE WORKING STYLES IS “RIGHT” FOR THE PERSON WHO IS DRAWN TO IT. “Every numerical rating on the Kolbe Continuum” she reminds us, “represents and equally positive trait.” And here’s perhaps the biggest takeaway for those who are eager to launch a Great Workplace Revolution: Any healthy organization needs a team that can, communally, provide all four strengths!
Join the Great Workplace Revolution — the Revolution where Everybody Wins!
