In the face of uncertainty we are often pushed into our stress mode of thinking challenging our ability to connect with clarity and meaning. 

As this continuously changing environment disrupts life as we know it, it is imperative for leaders to communicate clearly and find ways to connect with their teams. Now, more than ever before, we need to demonstrate personal leadership.

Stretching out of our default modes to adopt a whole brain® approach and consider thinking styles of others will help us engage more effectively. If you know your thinking profile, read on. If you want to take the survey to find out, scroll down.

HOW QUADRANTS MAY THINK IN TIMES OF CRISIS

A. Analytical. Analytical thinkers are great at assessing situations but may focus too deeply on details losing long-term perspective.  Data gathering, number crunching and a need for facts as the pandemic unfolds feeds their analytical mindset. Their more logical and rational focus and desire to get to the point may also appear ‘cold’ to those who value relationships and put people first.

B. Structural. Structural thinkers jump into planning mode specifically in times of crisis.  Their desire to be in control and keep things moving along could result in a reactive mode of operating.  Planners can lose themselves in the detail and desire for action and lose sight of the bigger picture. Written communications are appreciated by these thinkers who like to maintain sequential order.

C. Relational. Relational thinkers can be overwhelmed by emotional demands and become distracted easily.  As deeply caring people, their own feelings and those of others can shadow rational thinking and the ability to concentrate on the facts. These thinkers prefer in person/face to face communications and will be impacted more strongly by the drive for ‘social’ distancing.

D. Experimental. Experimental thinkers have a more creative approach to problem solving.  As big picture thinkers they are likely to feel frustrated with too many detailed rules and procedures.  As authorities crack down to manage the current crisis situation, conceptual thinkers will struggle to stick to plans fearing loss of freedom.  

HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH ALL THINKING STYLES  

A. Analytical.  Address the ‘what?’ Analytical thinkers like facts. Be specific on detail and encourage longer term perspective

B. Structural.  Structural thinkers like to know ‘how’. Detail the action to be taken and encourage a view of the bigger picture. 

C. Relational.  Relational thinkers are concerned about people - the ‘who’? Demonstrate empathy and encourage rational thinking

D. Experimental.  Experimental thinkers need to understand ‘why’.  Provide reason and tie it to the importance of attention to detail, planning and adherence to plans

Remember, everyone has access to all four quadrants but to varying degrees.  Taking a whole brain® approach eliminates guesswork and allows you to be more impactful in your communications.

MORE ABOUT WHOLE BRAIN® THINKING

How is your own thinking preference shifting under pressure and how do you need to adapt in this current situation?  

The concept of Whole Brain® Thinking is easy to learn and apply. It creates better results by improving communication - immediately! The model allows you to adapt and leverage different thinking styles rather than relying solely on the ones you are most comfortable with. Some of the many benefits include:·      

 Improved communication, problem-solving, and decision-making

 Elevated performance and employee engagement

Increased thinking agility and diversity 

Conflict Resolution

DIGITAL LEARNING SOLUTIONS

Gaiti Rabbani is a Certified Practitioner and Associate Trainer with Herrmann Asia and offers a variety of learning solutions using the Whole Brain® Thinking framework that can be tailored to specific business needs.  These learning solutions are now available through a digital platform allowing for remote debriefs and coaching conversations.