How do you tackle workplace challenges? Partnering with our opposite Animals
When presented with the trickiest of challenges we may display a more exaggerated version of our Animal style. Panthers may become more ‘Panther-y’, Peacocks a bit more ‘Peacock-y’… you get the picture! 😉
It’s an instinctive and unconscious response that can be detrimental to our ability to deal with challenges effectively. The reason that they are probably challenges for us in the first place is because they fall outside of our natural strengths and preferences and put us outside our comfort zones.
| Consider the following workplace scenarios… ❗ A Dolphin that needs to give constructive feedback to a Panther colleague ❗ An Owl that’s been asked to deliver a presentation on an unfamiliar topic with little prep time ❗ A Peacock that’s been asked to plan and budget to reduce spend ❗ A Panther leading a change initiative and is struggling to rally their team |
Feeling the frustration and discomfort of your Animal style?!
These scenarios may seem challenging to us… but to our OPPOSITE styles? Maybe not so much? They may even wish to trade theirs for ours… But while that might not be possible, partnering with them can help!
Teaming up with a colleague who’s our opposite Animal style can be a game changer! 🌟 Not only can we learn to compliment each other’s working style, but we can also look to them to find the best approach to help us tackle our challenges and concerns.
Seeking advice, tips, and feedback from people who are our opposite styles is a practical and easy solution that can help bring us out of our own bubble and comfort zone. It can help us evolve our thinking, explore different perspectives, expand our knowledge, and acquire new skills.
Check out our tips ⬇ on how to partner with our opposite Animal styles to work better together, maximise our potential and empower us to learn and grow!
The Power of Partnering with Opposite Styles
Panthers and Dolphins: Panthers are typically assertive, decisive, and results-oriented, while Dolphins are patient, cooperative, and focused on relationships.
Dolphins Working with Panthers
| Approach ❗ Be clear and concise in your communication. ❗ Be more direct than you usually would. ❗ Be prepared and outcomes-focused. | Learning Opportunities ❗ Taking initiative. ❗ The importance of defining outcomes and setting clear goals. ❗ Being more assertive and direct when expressing opinions. |
Panthers Working with Dolphins
| Approach: ❗ Give Dolphins the opportunity to speak first. ❗ Listen actively to ensure you understand their perspective. ❗ Pause and allow them time to reflect. | Learning Opportunities: ❗ The value in building rapport. ❗ Fostering teamwork and collaboration. ❗ Considering the impact of decisions on others and securing buy-in. |
Peacocks and Owls: Peacocks are generally outgoing, optimistic, and persuasive, whereas Owls are analytical, detail-oriented, and systematic.
Owls Working with Peacocks
| Approach: ❗ Provide genuine, positive feedback. ❗ Avoid overwhelming them with too much detail; ensure key messages stand out. ❗ Show interest in their point of view. | Learning Opportunities: ❗ The value of networking. ❗ How to be more adaptable. ❗ Communicate ideas in a more compelling way. |
Peacocks Working with Owls
| Approach: ❗ Be well-prepared with all necessary information, details, and facts. ❗ Anticipate their questions and analytical approach. ❗ Provide structure and apply logic in discussions. | Learning Opportunities: ❗ The value of thorough planning. ❗ Ensuring attention to detail. ❗ Following through on commitments. |
Interested in learning more about how to leverage different Animal styles for better teamwork and effectiveness? Click here to schedule a demo of Service Animals®, where you can explore how this profiling system can transform your workplace dynamics and drive success.