Here at ADMIN, we are constantly working on enhancing our productivity both as a company and as individuals. For inspiration, we will often turn to things like TEDTalks and podcasts. In fact, that is why we started our podcast series here on our blog. This same initiative has encouraged us to start a new monthly series on the blog that is dedicated to books that have influenced our team. Welcome to the Monthly Book Review.
It has been some time since we last posted a book review on the blog. With the 4th quarter quickly coming to a close, our reading speed has slowed up quite a bit. However, it did not stop us from diving in to the renowned book ‘Start With Why’ by one of our favorites, Mr. Simon Sinek. The book, which was released in 2009, has rave reviews sprawling all over the internet. This isn’t so surprising as Simon’s movement to help inspire people at work has been widely popular thanks to its simple approach.
Simon has made a few appearances on our blog and social media. Whether it be a motivational quote that we use to kick off the week on Twitter or an inspirational TED Talk on leadership, we have always appreciated his insights on business. Knowing this, it was not surprising that our team took a lot from the read; however, we were a bit taken back on just how much Sinek’s approach resonated with the way we do business here at ADMIN.
To best lead people, Sinek believes you have to start with WHY. In fact, his research into some of the top leaders in the World showcases how their success is dependent upon them leading in a way that is opposite to the norm. Rather than starting with the ‘what’ or the ‘how,’ these great leaders approach everything with ‘why.’ It is known that people buy from people they trust. The same goes for leadership: people follow people they believe in; people they trust. Rather than approaching leadership with a tactic or a false sense of hope, you can move a company (employees and clients) with your honest ‘why.’
ADMIN Partners has built our business model on our ‘why’ (read more about that here) which explains the deep connection our team made with Sinek’s book. We base both our sales and operations on our why: Why do we do the work that we do? Why do we service the type of clients that we do? This approach has allowed us to build honest relationships with our clients and lends to a productive and open workplace. Needless to say, we (much like Simon) always start with why.
We want to know! What are you reading this month? Share your recommendations in the comment section below!