How to manage different working styles

As a consultant and project manager, its part and parcel of the job to bend and flex to different working styles. Some clients like to be involved in every element of the project and will dictate emails to me and others I barely see, trusting me to get on with it.

It’s a challenge, but once I get to know all of their different communication styles, their motivations for the project, difficulties they have had in the past, how they like information presented to them and what they truly want from me, this is where we start to see positive results.

However, I would not be telling the truth if I didn’t share that sometimes this has been difficult and having recently discussed this with some peers who are not strangers to this situation; together we recommend the following:

1. Review, Reflect and then Act

It’s usually obvious when things aren’t working well, and communication feels strained.

Quickly call a meeting, raise the issues and be prepared to act on the feedback.

If you are reading this, I’m guessing you’re a change agent, or a contractor tasked with a challenging project. You have the skills and experience, but your confidence may be knocked, and mistakes are being made.

In preparation for and post your meeting, review the situation, reflect on your role, your communication style and what you need to deliver the project, the brief and context and then act on what improvements can be made.

2. Start Fresh

Now you have gotten the most difficult part out of the way (acknowledging and addressing the issues), start fresh and move forward. You have work to do and people are counting on you.

In most cases, it’s a simple misunderstanding or clash of personalities but you are a professional and good at your job. Start fresh, be positive and let’s continue 😊 (if you want to.)

Ask Questions

A lot of misunderstandings occur when we are frightened to ask questions, but it’s your job to clarify the next steps of the project. It is the simplest, most effective and most essential aspect required to progress your initiative.

Lastly, when it’s taking you a little longer to find your groove, remember to;

· Just be you

· Relax

· Adopt a positive and can-do attitude

· Try not to take things personally and jump to conclusions about what others may think

For more insights on leadership, project and change management Tara Humphrey (MBA) has published over 100 blogs which can be accessed here: https://www.thcprimarycare.co.uk/blog/.