3 Tips on How to Work With a Hyper Task Focused Introvert.

Have you ever found yourself with a co-worker, maybe a boss, or possibly someone you’re leading that seems to be so introverted, so task focused, that they lose all sight of the humanity in your interaction with them? I did, I once had a boss that would come across as a very cold taskmaster that would be solely focused on getting the job done. He demanded that a very regimented strict process be followed for even the simplest of task. His reactions for not following the process were sometimes overwhelming, and at times intimidating. Often as he was talking about an issue, he would include an intense amount of detail on the subject that was not necessary to a make the point. He did always get to the point though, lol. Overall, he would always deliver an amazing deliverable with extremely high quality. His relationships suffered in the process, because he struggled with placing a person’s feelings over a task. His words were generally sharp and insensitive when bringing correction, and it was not spawning any loyalty.?

?Have you ever experienced someone like this? Have you wondered how to work with someone with these behaviors? How stay out of their hot seat? There are a few things you can do to lessen if not all together resolve tensions individuals like this, and I’d like to point a few of them out.

1. Respect the Process

These individuals are highly analytical and have most likely thought through every possible version of a process. They have concluded that the process or system they are advocating is in fact the most efficient and effective way to complete a given task. Everyone has a hill they will die on and this individual will most likely pick defending their process. If you are working on a task with them, and desire to maintain a constructive relationship with them, first step is to respect the process.

2. Listen to the Whole Story.

This type of personality is known to drag on with seemingly meaningless details in their descriptions and explanations. It is necessary for them to successfully make their point and there will be a point at the end. Pay attention closely along the way, because their analytical minds are sharing relevant data necessary to the message. They have essentially taken the scenic route, when you might just want the bullet points. They have difficulty with the simple bullet points and will struggle to provide them. So, try to extend some patience and gather the understanding along the way.

3. Complete the Task.

These individuals are very task focused and feel most rewarded with the completion of a task. As a result, bonding with them through the completion of a task is incredibly rewarding for them, but don’t expect high fives and hugs when it’s all done. Celebrate the victory briefly and then onto the next task that needs to be accomplished. Understanding the importance of completing a task and focusing achieving a high-quality deliverable is the most effective way to achieve their respect.

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Whoever this individual is to you and however they make you feel, know that they are very loyal to their own. Once you have them on your side, they will fight for you when necessary. Try not to take offense to their high task focus, but rather recognize their ability to analyze and process information at an amazing rate, and that they will always come through with an incredible product.

?In my dealings with this type of personality these tips to be helpful. They have allowed me to build bridges rather, than burn them. Everyone has a different personality, and sometimes they conflict. We can’t always choose who we get to work with, but we can learn how to be cooperative and work together despite the differences. I hope you find these tips to be helpful in strengthening the relationships around you.