Dealing With an “I” Boss

You have done the DiSC Profile and your boss is a Strong I – Influencing, Interactive, Inclusive, and Intuitive. How can you best work together?

Be both people oriented as well as results oriented. Discuss work issues both in terms of productivity and the people. Let your enthusiasm and passion show but don’t mask legitimate problems or flaws.

Be upbeat. Because they like enthusiasm and focus on action, they want a busy positive workplace and may get bored or frustrated when things slow down or get negative.

Be inclusive. Because they care what people think and value collaboration, they may fear a loss of popularity or being excluded. Invite them to lunch. Let them know that yes, they are the boss and that they are also a part of the team

Let them talk things out. Strong I’s think as they talk. You will get your best answers if you let them talk it out. Be patient and listen intently

Show that you care about them personally. Listen to their stories. Laugh with them when they joke appropriately. Ask about their lives outside of work.

Blame carefully. If you plan to blame them for anything, be sure to check your facts. Strong I bosses are particularly sensitive and defensive if they see it an unfair blame.

Realize they tend to show their emotions. In conflict, they may say harsh things that they regret later. Avoid engaging in any personal attacks.

Emphasize that your relationship is still strong, Particularly after a tough confrontation, good feelings are important to them and they don’t want to have people mad at them.

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