I was introduced to this short Ted Talk by Simon Sinek recently. It really resonated with me. I think it speaks to the heart (you’ll understand that statement better after watching the video) of what Armedia does and why I am a part of it.

In the video, Simon Sinek discusses how people/organizations/companies who speak from the “why” of what they do before getting to the “how” and “what” of what they do are more effective in their communication. I could – and do – tell people:

“Armedia is a CMMI3 software development and integration company specializing in content management.  We hire the best and the brightest employees and exceed our customers’ expectations in quality and design.”

However, using Simon Sinek’s technique, I should start by telling you:

“Armedia is a family of multi-discipline professionals who are naturally curious and passionate about technology – especially as it relates to content management.  We endeavor to push technology and its application too the limit to develop solutions for customers that we believe in and are proud of.  We achieve this by carefully hiring employees that share this passion and are eager to share it both within the company and with customers.  Many of our employees are so passionate about the technology that they have achieved industry certifications (e.g., Alfresco, Documentum, SharePoint, PMP, CMMI, etc.).  Though we are a general systems integrator, our niche is certainly content management.”

This type of approach paints a different kind of picture of our company and workplace.  It also hints at our core values, which guide all of our decisions and conduct.  I believe that the “why” of what we do is intimately tied to the “who” of what we are, as described by our core values.

So, the next time you have to give an introduction or an elevator speech, start with the “why” and see if you don’t get a better response from your audience. And, if my description of the Armedia family and the “why” we interest you, check out our job postings.