Working With an “S” Boss

You have done the DiSC Profiles and your boss is a Strong S – Steady, Sincere, Systematic and likes Security. Managers with an S style want to make plans, be accommodating and be very dependable. However, they don’t like change and avoid conflict. What can you do to work better with an “S” Boss?

Prioritize collaboration – S bosses want people to get along, pool resources and work harmoniously as a team. When you share ideas, let them know that you have checked it out with others and have received input from a variety of sources; and together you have reached the proposed conclusion.

Be systematic – Organize your thoughts before you meet. Have an outline and a plan of action. If you can lay out your plan in a step-by-step manner, they will appreciate it and are more likely to approve it.

Be patient – An S boss wants to take time to consider various options before they respond. They weigh both sides of a decision so they can be sure that your ideas will work and not cause much disruption.

Be positive but not overzealous – An S boss is friendly but not overenthusiastic. They don’t like exaggerations. An S boss wants to know how your ideas will help people and/or bring them together.

Deal with conflict – Your boss may avoid conflict, gloss over differences and deny that there is a problem. However, that does not mean they have forgotten it. You may need to take a more direct approach to clear up disagreements. Express your concern about their feelings and share your desire to work through the conflict. If you don’t, resentments could build and be worse later

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drmimi

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