Characteristics of a Guardian
Natural Strengths
- Helpful
- Steady
- Diligent
- Detail-oriented
Common Drivers
- Reassurance
- Time to trust others
- Freedom from changing priorities
- Freedom from risk of error
Caution Areas
- May avoid conflict
- Can be sensitive to criticism
- May struggle with ambiguity
- Resistant to change without clarity
The Guardian on a team
Guardians are natural team players. They’re known to be helpful, approachable, and skilled at detailed work. They thrive in and help contribute to a culture of accuracy. Teams are often designed by default rather than intention. A strategic, data-driven approach to building teams is what helps organizations win.
Learn moreManaging a Guardian
Often managers try to manage everyone the same way—and that’s usually the way they like to be managed. But this approach can backfire. People like to be managed differently—and it may not always be in a way that comes naturally to you. Even beyond the individual needs, teams require different leadership styles. You wouldn’t manage a sales team the same way you’d manage a team of developers.
When working with Guardians, remember that they’re patient, steady, pensive, and precise. They have a high tolerance for repetitive work and can take time to warm up to new people. Guardians respect and seek direction. When managing this profile, consider some of the following suggestions:
- Be supportive and help to remove blockers.
- Offer step-by-step training resources.
- Provide direction and a plan to guide their efforts.
- Allow them time to think through decisions.
- Let them work heads-down on projects that require detail-orientation.
- Provide a stable working environment.
