I read something called “The Willing and Able Matrix.” Yeah, I didn’t know that sort of matrix existed either. But it makes a lot of sense. At least if you’re someone who’ll be responsible for hiring and firing people. Here’s how it goes.
People fall into two categories as new employees. Willing and able.
And this is how I saw it explained.
“When someone is able to do their job, it means they have the necessary skills, competence, and expertise to perform their responsibilities.
When someone is willing to do their job, it means that they are aligned with the company’s mission and values. And are enthusiastic about their role.
So, people will fall into one of the following four categories. And if you can pinpoint where they are, you can figure out whether to let them go or give them the opportunity to improve.
Willing and Able
This is where you want everyone. Bought into your culture, reflecting your values and mission, and able to fulfill their roles and responsibilities. These are your A-players.
Unwilling but Able
This person knows how to get the job done. But it doesn’t seem like it’s a priority to them. And they’re not invested in the mission or invigorated about the work. When this happens, there’s some underlying reason. So, ask questions to find out what’s going on. Stephen Covey said, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, “Seek first to understand.” You need to have a frank conversation with this employee to figure out why this is happening. Because they might have legitimate concerns that reflect problems in your business, personal problems. Or they may just not be aligned with your mission. Whatever the case, you need to find out the underlying issue before casting judgment.
Willing but Unable
This is a really enthusiastic person who is on board with everything you give them. But they just aren’t competent. So, the question here is, Can you get them where they need to be? If you are dealing with this person, approach them with honesty. Ask them what can be done to close the gap between expectations and reality. Again, listen. Because, sometimes you can get them where they need to be, with additional training and resources. But sometimes they just are not the right fit for the role.
Unwilling and Unable
If an employee doesn’t have the skills to do the job well and they aren’t willing to get better, it’s time to let them go.”
Well, that might be more information than you even ever imagined you’d need on the subject of hiring and firing. Or maybe you’d like to know more about how to set up a System to help ease the burdens.
In that case, I recommend you enroll in RondaReady UNversity before midnight July 31st. That’s the deadline to enroll and still be in time for the lesson on hiring and firing next month. August 3 (1st Thursday) to be precise.
Monthly tuition is $15. And you get how-to lessons that help you run a business, not just have one. Click or tap the link below before the deadline. And I’ll see you in less than a week.
Stay Ready,
R.O.N.D.A.
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