Are you a fixer leader? I wrote about this in my last post. A fixer leader is not necessarily bad, but chronic fixer leaders who struggle to discern real problems from run-of-the-mill difficulties often prompt frustration in others. Chronic fixer leaders:
- Are deep thinkers who tend to perseverate over data, diverting their attention away from people and communication priorities.
- View circumstances with skepticism and need assurances that systems and products are at optimum states, which can drag down those around them.
- Taint their mindset by overstating negative and minimizing positive aspects, which leads to poor decisions.
- Are easily paralyzed by analysis and avoid making decisions, thereby blocking progress.
- Have little trust in processes and procedures, as well as those who adhere to them.
- Wear people down with endless questions as they seek complete resolutions or fixes.
- Tend to challenge authority by questioning their motives in supporting the status quo.
- Can invent negative outcomes to affirm their discomfort with ideas or methods, creating greater challenges.
- Lack flexibility and a willingness to accept new ideas.
But there is an upside of the fixer leader. Leaders who focus on troubleshooting:
- Are great lessons-learned resources, full of advice on how to avoid past mistakes.
- Have excellent analytical and problem-spotting skills. They catch errors most people overlook, which reduces waste.
- Are prepared and calm when trouble arises, as they planned for it.
- Are unafraid to discuss the elephant in the room, tackling significant issues no one else wants to mention.
- React honestly, without hedging, grandstanding or bragging.
Ideally, the positive traits of fixer leaders will outweigh their negative behaviors. When this topic comes up with my coaching clients, I encourage self-awareness to help minimize damage to their organizations. (Click here to read more of my posts on this very important topic.)
What do you think? Does the upside of being a fixer leader outweigh the downside? I’d love to hear from you. You can call me at 561-582-6060, let’s talk. And as always, I can be reached here or on LinkedIn.
