Working with a High 'I' Boss: A High 'C' Perspective

Understanding the High 'I' Boss

• 🎯 High 'I' bosses are motivated by new ideas, exciting opportunities, and energetic pursuits, often preferring to skim topics rather than delve deep.
• 💬 They love to talk, brainstorm, and engage in conversations, sometimes jumping between topics without a clear linear progression.
• ✨ A key desire for high 'I' bosses is to have fun at work, believing that enjoyment leads to productivity.
• 🚀 They are driven by results but often focus on public recognition and praise rather than detailed, repetitive work.
• 🤝 High 'I' bosses prioritize relationships and networking, viewing them as essential for problem-solving and achieving goals.

High 'C' vs. High 'I' Communication Styles

• 🧠 High 'C' individuals are typically logical, rational, and reserved, focusing on detail and process.
• ⚡ High 'I' individuals are assertive, outgoing, and people-focused, often relying on intuition and enthusiasm.
• ⚠️ The difference in these styles can lead to frustration, particularly when a high 'C' needs detailed planning and a high 'I' wants a quick rough draft.
• 🗣️ Communication with a high 'I' boss requires a shift from detailed, logical explanations to more energetic and enthusiastic engagement.

Navigating Differences in Work and Decision-Making

• 💡 High 'I' bosses may appear to avoid deep dives into details, believing that problems can be solved through relationships and energy.
• 📊 They might ask for broad estimates (e.g., "10, 100, or a billion?") rather than precise figures, which can be challenging for a high 'C'.
• 🤝 While high 'I' bosses value relationships, they also want to look good and be seen as successful through their team's achievements.
• 🚀 High 'I' bosses are comfortable with risk-taking and uncertainty, often making decisions based on gut feeling and then adapting.

Strategies for High 'C' Directs

• ✅ Adapt communication style: Show more energy and enthusiasm, and avoid excessive questioning about minor details.
• 🎯 Focus on the outcome: Understand that your boss may not want to slog through details once a rough plan is in place.
• 🤝 Build rapport: Engage in conversations that build a relationship, as this is crucial for a high 'I' boss.
• 💡 Express support based on merit: When agreeing with an idea, articulate your support and then propose how to make it work, acknowledging their passion.
• ⏳ Manage decision-making: Be aware that high 'I' bosses may delay decisions to keep options open, and be prepared for potential shifts in direction.