Independent thinkers are confident, eager to learn, and incredibly passionate about their work. These people know their strengths, aren’t easily influenced by others, and always stand up for what they believe in — even if their opinion is unpopular.
Managing an independent thinker is often simultaneously frustrating and rewarding, because they never stop challenging you. If your entire team is primarily composed of this personality type, you’ll need to take a unique management approach that allows you maintain control, without stifling their creativity. Learn how to expertly handle those who constantly want to rebel.
4 Best Practices for Managing Independent Thinkers
Open the Lines of Communication
When an independent thinker feels ignored, they display increasingly disruptive behavior until they get your full attention. Avoid this by having a private conversation with the person as soon as they start acting out, to get to the root of the problem. Explain the impact their actions have on the team as a whole and work together to find a solution that works for both of you.
Offer Challenging Work
Maximize the employee’s creative energy by continuously assigning them work that’s inspiring and stimulating. These people become restless when they’re bored, so keep them occupied by directing their energy in a positive manner. Don’t forget to recognize the impact their contributions have on your company, as this is typically the leading motivator for this personality type.
Listen to Their Ideas
Independent thinkers need to feel heard, so nurture this by regularly consulting with them. Make it clear that all of their ideas will not be implemented, but you’re open to exploring those that make the most sense. Ask them to support their visions with a strong business case, to prove it will bring results if executed — also a great way to get them to see that some of these plans are not viable.
Focus on Team-Building
Managing a team of people who are all staunchly committed to their own ideas is no easy task. Work on getting them to support one another and politely listen to the thoughts and opinions of their colleagues. Help them realize nothing gets accomplished when they’re all wrapped up in their own agendas, but big changes can happen when they join forces. This will take some time, so be patient.
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