Think of your ideal boss- what characteristics do they have? Are they kind? Do they offer support in and outside of work? Do they push you and their other employees to do their best work? What characteristics of a leader do they possess? On the other hand, what are some characteristics of the worst boss you’ve ever had?
Carl Jung called certain individuals high in social skills and praise Introverted, or Sensory, Feelers. In this instance, we call them Supporters, as their main characteristic is their emotional support of others. Supporters are quick to come to the rescue of their friends, will go the extra mile to get a job done, and build a strong network of relationships with their coworkers.
The strength of a Supporter
Support goes a long way in a working environment and having a supporter as a boss or as a coworker can be a blessing and a challenge. Supporters are consistent in their praise of others and when it comes to their own work, and can be relied upon to get the job done. However, they are also easily frustrated when confronted with a tight deadline or pressure from work situations.
A Supporter is challenged by change, and may need help from bosses or coworkers to enact new procedures or adjust to new working requirements. Professional problems evolve, and to stay active and efficient employees have to evolve to create sustainable solutions to those problems. Planning in advance for these changes can help a Supporter get used to the new ideas being implemented, so they are ready to go when those changes are put into action.
Supporters are predictable, steady, and loyal, but are also adverse to risk-taking and resist change. They best work in professional scenarios where they feel they are appreciated and heard. A Supporter’s strength lies in their ability to work well with others; their confidence comes from their boss and peers’ affirmations that they are doing a good job.
Working with a supporter
Supporters are great mediators, which make them excellent colleagues and team leaders. Supporters’ affable nature makes them great in meetings with clients and partners, and they can be trusted to do their jobs very well. They are incredibly loyal workers and can make work environments social and enjoyable for themselves and others.
Individuals with other personality types may find Supporters difficult to get along with because of their steadfast nature and resistance to new ideas, but remembering a few things about Supporters can get everyone back on the same page. Supporters should be given space to complete their tasks, but a gentle push in the right direction can help them meet deadlines. Supporters need a little bit more time to adjust to new protocols or job descriptions, so a bit of warning can make a difference to them.
If you would like further help in identifying yourself or someone you know who may be a supporter, schedule me, Scott Schwefel, as your keynote speaker. I will come to your group and address the differences in personalities in a truthful, fun, and easy-to-understand way. Follow me on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to share my blogs with the color energies you work with!