The Business Coach with Laura Murphy: “They’re so slow...”

Question: “I have someone who is so process orientated it drives me mad. They have to go through every single step and it’s slowing me down. How can I change them?” Mike

Answer: “The short answer is you can’t and you shouldn’t. That’s their operating model and only they can change it. You’re seeing them as a negative in how you do things so let’s deal with what you can change – your response. Switch your mind set around and look at the positives.

They’re thorough, they will pick out any discrepancies or gaps and so people who work like that are invaluable when you’re dealing with something that needs care and attention. Contract evaluation, supply chain methodology, conference organisation. From what you say elsewhere, they’re in exactly the right role.

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Just as you find them annoying, they probably find you similarly so with your operating model. You’re creative, fast with your thinking, great at seeing solutions to problems, like to jump from one idea to the next. So, rather than seeing them as an obstacle to preventing you from doing what you want, they’re invaluable at helping you to ensure that there’s substance to your ideas, no bear traps in your solutions. They will ensure that the implementation of your ideas will go through more smoothly enhancing your reputation.

So take charge of your response to them. Stop bristling with annoyance, which only wastes your time and energy and raises the anti. Respect their view of the world and use that to your benefit. That way they’ll better understand you and you’ll have a more improved working relationship.”

Laura is an organisation development specialist and executive coach with mtc2 ltd.  To solve your problem email [email protected] Tweet @WayfinderWoman Names and details have been changed to protect confidentiality.