Traits that help an executive in a single position frequently do not operate nicely in another position. Moving into new roles or environments, rein in various facets of their characters or executives may have to play up. Psychologists have identified innumerable characteristics differentiating us from one another. But recent studies have converged toward five broad measurements, each comprising a cluster of traits that account for nearly all the differences among individual styles.
Drawing on their extensive training work with senior executives, the authors identify common direction pitfalls related to low and high scores on each of the Big Five personality dimensions, in addition to potential solutions. For example, executives who tend to control group settings -demonstrating elevated levels of extraversion -can practice the "four-sentence" rule: limiting whatever they need to say to four sentences. Self awareness, the writers reason, is the unavoidable starting point for managing the mental tastes of one. Without it, executives will struggle to develop or find coping strategies. With it, leaders can learn where their natural inclinations lie -and they can boost or compensate for those propensities, determined by the circumstances. The idea is not to experience a personality change. It is to be yourself, with more skill.
PUBLICATION DATE: April 01, 2012 PRODUCT #: SMR417-PDF-ENG
This is just an excerpt. This case is about LEADERSHIP & MANAGING PEOPLE
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