In the workplace, we behave in seven "classic" ways, says a recent Fabricating and Metalworking article. According to author Francie Dalton, who is founder and president of Dalton Alliances, Inc., a Maryland-based business consulting firm specializing in communication, management, and the behavioral sciences, these general categories may not encapsulate all the actions of your co-workers, but they will give you insight into how to better deal with them:
Commanders
Curt and controlling, commanders don't waste time on niceties.
Drifters
Averse to structure, drifters often have trouble with rules, work hours and deadlines.
Attackers
Ill-tempered and contemptuous, attackers can have a dampening effect on workplace morale.
Pleasers
Considerate, sociable and friendly, pleasers rarely deny the requests of others and think of colleagues as extended family members.
Performers
Witty, charismatic and outspoken, performers engage and entertain others in the workplace.
Avoiders
Clinging to the status quo, avoiders shy away from increased responsibility because they fear it will make them more visible and accountable.
Analyticals
Meticulous, thorough and cautious, analyticals can get mired in details.
