What are effective strategies for building relationships with big-picture thinkers?

1 Appreciate their vision

One of the best ways to build rapport with big-picture thinkers is to acknowledge and appreciate their vision. Show interest in their ideas, goals, and perspectives, and ask them open-ended questions that allow them to express their thoughts and feelings. Avoid being critical, judgmental, or dismissive of their vision, even if you disagree or have doubts. Instead, try to understand their logic, motivation, and passion, and offer constructive feedback or suggestions that align with their vision.

2 Speak their language

Another important strategy for building relationships with big-picture thinkers is to speak their language. This means using words, phrases, and examples that resonate with their way of thinking and communicating. For instance, you can use metaphors, analogies, or stories to illustrate your points, rather than facts, data, or numbers. You can also use words that convey excitement, enthusiasm, or possibility, rather than words that imply limitations, risks, or problems. Additionally, you can use visual aids, such as graphs, charts, or images, to help them visualize your ideas or information.

3 Focus on the why

Big-picture thinkers are often motivated by the why behind their actions, decisions, or projects. They want to know how their work contributes to a larger purpose, mission, or cause, and how it impacts others or the world. Therefore, when you communicate or collaborate with big-picture thinkers, you should focus on the why as much as possible. Explain the rationale, the benefits, or the value of what you are doing or proposing, and how it connects to their vision or goals. Avoid getting into too much detail or technicality, unless they ask for it or it is essential.

4 Support their execution

Big-picture thinkers may have great ideas and visions, but they may not always have the best skills or strategies to execute them. They may get distracted, overwhelmed, or bored by the details, the logistics, or the challenges involved in turning their vision into reality. This is where you can offer your support and assistance, and help them stay on track, organized, and accountable. You can help them break down their vision into smaller, manageable steps, set realistic timelines and milestones, and monitor their progress and performance. You can also help them delegate, outsource, or collaborate with others who have complementary skills or expertise.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?