Understanding the People Factor in Conflict
by Tony DiLeonardi
When it comes to human interaction, we are all very aware of the
many natural differences among us. We've often interacted
with people and had natural connections or natural conflicts from
the start. These are called normal differences according
William Marston, who in the 1920s developed a system for describing
normal differences among people.
According to Marston's work, most of us are a combination of
several styles. Despite human nature to think otherwise, it's
important to remember that there is no right or wrong style.
It is also important to understand that there are strengths and
challenges for each.
To identify which style you fall into, ask yourself the following
questions:
First, when faced with a decision are you more impulsive or are
you slow and methodical?
Secondly, when given a task, are you more
focused on the task at hand or are you more focused on
relationship and people?
From your responses, you will fall into one of four styles listed
below. I encourage you to understand where your clients fall
within the four styles, and understand the strengths and weaknesses
of each style.
Powerhouses: If you are more
impulsive and more task-oriented, you are a Powerhouse.
Powerhouses are results-oriented and all about the bottom
line.
Perfectionists: If are more methodical
and more task-oriented you are a Perfectionist.
Perfectionists are slower, accurate, more analytical
people.
People People: If you are more
methodical and more people-focused, you are the People People
style. The People People are very supportive, tactful and
amiable.
Persuaders: Finally, if you are
people-focused and more impulsive, then you are a Persuader.
The Persuaders are high energy, optimistic and articulate
people.
In my next post, we'll explore each personality style and how to
best approach each style in a conflict situation.