How can individuals “move the needle” on their careers and achieve higher performance at work? Farrell Middleton, president of The Bell Curve of Life, joins Host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to discuss how his new book, A Performer/A Environment, presents working professionals with the tools they need to make meaningful growth in the workplace.

The 20-60-20 Principle

In A Performer/A Environment, Middleton dives into the “bell curve” pattern that comprises working professionals. The upper category of workers makes up 20%, then 60% is in the middle and 20% are in the lower category. He looks at factors such as behavior, skills, performance and results to empower individuals in the middle 60% and lower 20% to make improvements in life that matter to them.

Middleton said, “These [changes] have to make a difference to them and those closest to them.”

Through The Bell Curve of Life and the book, Middleton offers a powerful framework for professionals to pinpoint and cultivate the most crucial aspects of their lives. His core mission is to empower individuals to reach the “top 20% of what matters most to them.”

Building Industry Reflections

“I think everybody has a skill set of some sort,” said Middleton. “They just need to find it.”

A Performer/A Environment draws on Middleton’s 36-year career in the building industry, and he reflects on several take-aways from his time in the industry, most notably the people he has met and his exposure to customer service.

“I’ve had the privilege of working closely with people of all educational levels, from high-level to master’s degrees in finance to people who never graduated from high school and everything in between,” said Middleton. “And every one of them, no matter their station, has stories of success and stories of failure, like we all do.”

In the homebuilding industry, customer service is the vital link between a builder and a homebuyer. According to Middleton, this connection is only as strong as a company’s internal communication. He argues that seamless and consistent internal communication is the key to effectively selling a product or service.

The homebuilding process involves a series of critical handoffs, and each one must be handled with deliberate communication and careful consideration. When these internal transitions are smooth, the customer experience is enhanced and the company’s reputation for reliability and quality is strengthened.

“We just don’t realize the impact that our performance has on other people,” said Middleton. “We can take a step back and everybody can say, ‘Hey, if what I’m doing right now is going to negatively impact somebody down the line, maybe I could do a little bit better?’”

Communication and Relationship-Building

Middleton says the number one issue he sees through his program is individuals not listening. No one has all of the answers, but communication and building relationships with coworkers and industry peers are great ways to learn new skills.

Middleton explains, “If someone becomes a better listener, they can automatically become a better leader.” They can do that tomorrow, without a doubt.”

In A Performer/A Environment, professionals access everything they need to elevate their performance, from individual skills such as attitude and communication to the higher-level skills needed in management positions. When leaders adopt better skills, it trickles down to their associates as well. A healthy work environment, built on respect and strong communication, is also key to success. With improvements in these categories, a worker in the middle range can move to the upper, high-achieving tier with time and dedication.

Middleton identifies three major characteristics of a “good” leader:

• A healthy vision for the business
• Remain approachable
• Willing to delegate tasks
• Ability to ID other leaders

“Don’t be scared of smart people,” said Middleton. “Get them on your team as fast as you can and let them perform. Both of your lives will be better for whatever period of time you’re together.”

Tune into the full episode to discover how to unlock your full potential in the workplace. For more information about The Bell Curve of Life, visit www.TheBellCurveofLife.com. A Performer/A Environment is available to buy on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.

About The Bell Curve of Life

Since founding The Bell Curve of Life in 2022, Farrell Middleton has been on a mission to ignite positive change in both individuals and organizations. His unique program aims to help people become top-tier, “A-level” performers while simultaneously guiding leaders in creating environments where that excellence can thrive. Through one-on-one sessions, group workshops, company presentations and public speaking, Middleton has already connected with hundreds of people, helping them unlock their full potential. Middleton is currently booking keynotes and workplace sessions. Book a class for your business here.

Podcast Thanks

Thank you to Denim Marketing for sponsoring Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio. Known as a trendsetter, Denim Marketing has been blogging since 2006 and podcasting since 2011. Contact them when you need quality, original content for social media, public relations, blogging, email marketing and promotions. A comfortable fit for companies of all shapes and sizes, Denim Marketing understands marketing strategies are not one-size-fits-all. The agency works with your company to create a perfectly tailored marketing strategy that will suit your needs and niche. Try Denim Marketing on for size by calling 770-383-3360 or by visiting www.DenimMarketing.com.

About Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio

Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, presented by Denim Marketing, highlights the movers and shakers in the Atlanta real estate industry – the home builders, developers, Realtors and suppliers working to provide the American dream for Atlantans. For more information on how you can be featured as a guest, contact Denim Marketing at 770-383-3360 or fill out the Atlanta Real Estate Forum contact form. Subscribe to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast on iTunes, and if you like this week’s show, be sure to rate it.