Monday, December 15, 2008

Are All Friends Created Equal?

I just came across this and found it worth while and wanted to share it with you.
It is regarding friendship in the workplace. I admittedly am not a strategic or focused
person by talent. However my strength of learning gives me opportunities to learn principles
that can help. Gallup Organization which publishes many of my favorite management and business related books has a new one I had not read before. The one sentence gist is what type of friend are you good and being and how can you share that with your teammates at work.

The title is Vital Friends, and it argues there are eight distinct types of friends...

Vital Friends Roles

BuilderBuilders are great motivators, always pushing you toward the finish line. They continually invest in your development and genuinely want you to succeed.
CompanionA Companion is always there for you, whatever the circumstances. You share a bond that is virtually unbreakable.
ConnectorConnectors are bridge-builders who help you to get what you want. They get to know you -- and then connect you to others.
CollaboratorA Collaborator is a friend with similar interests, with whom you can easily relate. You might share a passion for sports, hobbies, religion, work, politics, foods, music, films, or books.
EnergizerEnergizers are your fun friends, who always give you a boost. You have more positive moments when you are with these friends.
Mind OpenerMind Openers are the friends who expand your horizons with new ideas, opportunities, cultures, and people. They help you create positive change.
NavigatorNavigators are the friends who give you advice, and keep you headed in the right direction. You go to them whenever you need guidance, and they talk through the "pros" and "cons" with you until you find an answer.
ChampionChampions stand up for you and what you believe in. They are loyal friends who sing your praises and defend you until the end.
The question I pose to you and myself is which am I and how is that best shared in building friendships with those I work with?


1 comment:

Jen K said...

hey, what's your email??? so i can invite you to view my blog