PeopleSmart in Business eBook - The Platinum Rule

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Six: Leadership Styles
how to improve it. Point out in a non-threatening way what they’re already
doing right while also emphasizing what needs changing. “Norma,
I admire your persistence on this proposal, but we have to add
more details to Th e Idea section before we send it out. For example…”
Communicating with Steady Relaters
Be ready to do more talking than listening with them, since they
don’t naturally feel comfortable when the limelight is focused on them.
You will want to clarify any key agenda item with them, working to
stay organized and moving forward steadily but slowly as you check to
make sure they both understand and accept what is being said: “Did
you want me to stick around the offi ce at a particular time each day
in case you need to telephone me for emergency questions on this account,
or do you want me to call you?”
Making decisions and solving problems with Steady Relaters
In dealing with problems and decisions with this type, make sure
to deal with only one subject or situation at a time, one step at a time.
To gain clarity, before moving on to other items, make sure they are
ready, willing, and able to do so. Recalling that they need stability, deal
with matters calmly and in a more relaxed manner. Encourage them
to share their suggestions as to how the decision might be made in a
way that is likely to add even more stability to the current conditions
than already, or previously, exist. “Would you mind writing down a
schedule of your offi ce’s activities so I can get my proposal written up
without missing anything? ”
When suggesting a diff erent possibility to Steady Relaters, point out
how you are trying to identify ways that you can help continue to make
things pleasant for them. You simply have an idea or opinion in this respect
which will also help stabilize your own relationship expectations