How Best to Use Personality Insights into Flexible Working Models

The best-known book currently being read by Business Book Clubs around the country is Thomas Erikson's "Surrounded by Idiots".  In this book, Erikson introduces a simple and accessible way to understand and categorise personality types through four colours: Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green. This model, based on the DISC theory, helps in understanding communication and behaviour patterns in personal and professional contexts. Each colour represents a set of personality traits:

Red

• Dominant and driven: Reds are goal-oriented, assertive, and competitive. They are decisive leaders who prioritise results and efficiency.
• Impatient: They can be impatient and less tolerant of what they perceive as inefficiency or indecisiveness.
• Independent: Reds prefer to work autonomously and often take charge in group settings.
• Direct communication: They value directness and clarity in communication, often getting straight to the point.

Yellow

• Social and enthusiastic: Yellows are outgoing, expressive, and enjoy being in the spotlight. They thrive on social interactions and are often seen as the life of the party.
• Optimistic: They are very optimistic and can always see the positive side of life, which helps them in motivating others.
• Creative: Yellows are imaginative and often come up with innovative solutions to problems.
• Dislike routine: They prefer variety and excitement over routine or repetitive tasks.

Blue

• Analytical and meticulous: Blues are detail-oriented, analytical, and enjoy working with data and facts. They value accuracy and thoroughness in all aspects of their work.
• Cautious decision-makers: They take their time to make decisions, ensuring they have all the necessary information and have considered all aspects.
• Reserved: Blues are more introverted and prefer to communicate in writing or in one-on-one conversations rather than in large groups.
• Value structure: They appreciate clear guidelines, structure, and order in their environments.

Green

• Calm and stable: Greens are reliable, supportive, and prefer harmony in their relationships. They are good listeners and are often seen as the peacemakers.
• Empathetic: They are highly empathetic and sensitive to the needs and feelings of others, making them excellent team players.
• Dislike conflict: Greens will often go to great lengths to avoid conflict and maintain a peaceful and stable environment.
• Resistant to change: They prefer consistency and may be resistant to change, valuing security and predictability.

Erikson's model encourages readers to understand and appreciate the diverse ways people think, communicate, and behave. By recognising these differences, individuals can improve their interactions with others, whether in the workplace, in personal relationships, or in broader social settings.

Which one are you?

Navigating Hybrid Work Challenges Through the Lens of "Surrounded by Idiots"

In today's evolving workplace, the shift towards hybrid work models presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for organisations. Balancing remote and in-office work demands a nuanced approach to maintaining productivity, team cohesion, and employee engagement. Integrating the insights from Erikson's book can provide a valuable perspective on managing these dynamics by leveraging an understanding of different personality types.

Understanding Personality Types in a Hybrid Environment

Erikson's colour-coded personality framework offers a lens through which to view our colleagues' preferences and communication styles. In a hybrid work setting, recognising these differences is key to fostering a supportive and efficient work environment.

Strategies for Balancing Remote and In-Office Work

1. Customise Communication: Tailor your communication strategy to suit the different personality types within your team. Utilise various tools and methods, from video calls for Yellow personalities who crave face-to-face interaction, to detailed email updates for Blue types who prefer written communication.
2. Flexible Scheduling: Adapt work schedules to fit the diverse needs of your team. Allow Reds to have the autonomy to choose their work settings based on their tasks, whereas Greens may appreciate more structured schedules that offer predictability.
3. Targeted Team Building: Organise team-building activities that cater to different personalities. Virtual escape rooms can engage Yellows with their love for excitement, while problem-solving exercises can appeal to the analytical nature of Blues.
4. Feedback and Recognition: Personalise feedback and recognition to resonate with each personality type. Direct and straightforward praise works well for Reds and Blues, while Yellows and Greens may appreciate public acknowledgment and a focus on team achievements.

Maintaining Productivity, Team Cohesion, and Engagement

1. Implement regular check-ins that adapt to the preferences of your team members, offering a mix of group and one-on-one meetings.
2. Use project management tools that provide transparency and allow team members to update their progress in a way that suits their style.
3. Celebrate successes in a way that acknowledges the diverse contributions of your team, from the strategic planning of a Red to the supportive role of a Green.

Conclusion

The hybrid work model, with its blend of remote and in-office work, requires a dynamic and personalised approach to management. By applying the insights from "Surrounded by Idiots," leaders can better understand and leverage the strengths of their diverse team members. Recognising and adapting to the unique preferences and communication styles of Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green personalities can lead to a more cohesive, productive, and engaged team, ready to thrive in the hybrid work landscape.