I love to hear Uber drivers’ stories of life and where they are from as they transport me to my destination. You can learn so much about people and the world in general.
For example, in NYC, a driver fromt he Dominican Republic shared his thoughts around picking up different cultures and how they were very segregated at different bus/train stops.
“Well, as Dominicans, we like to party. We like to live large and stay up late. We like music. That doesn’t go well with different European cultures. They would hate living in our neighborhood. We are too loud. But that's who we are."
I never thought of that! Education. During another recent experience with an Uber driver, I asked, “So, do you just drive for Uber? Or do you have another full-time job?”
He replied, “I also drive the wheelchair cab. I love helping people. It brings me so much joy knowing I am helping an elderly person or someone who needs me to drive them somewhere.” He was lit up and alive, smiling as he responded. Clearly, that made him happy!
I replied, “Wow, that is not something I could do. That's not my personality."
It got me thinking…..
We all have our unique gifts and talents.
Leadership
As a leader, do you appreciate the gifts that your employees have? Do you listen to them to know if they are happy in their roles? Do you know how to recognize where they will be happiest and do their best for your organization or their roles?
My business partner commented once about the lack of drive someone had. I told him, “Remember, not everyone wants to be a CEO. Some people are perfectly happy making someone’s day serving them a great espresso drink.” Some people are big-idea people, some people LOVE the details of spreadsheets. Can you imagine being forced to live in a spreadsheet if you are the creative type or an artist? I love listening to people and asking questions to help with both sides of that question. What makes them happy? A happy person makes for a much better employee. And, oh my gosh, they are so much better for the work environment.
I would love to have that conversation with you. How can we make your team happier? How can I help you see those gifts in your employees? How can I help you, as a leader, be happier – to be a better leader?