Coaching, Mentoring and Managing: A Coach Guidebook

(Steven Felgate) #1
136

few copies like this one. So write a new headline now and
get it in to editorial.
Jan:
You bet!
Coach:
And, Jan ... what are you going to do with it this time?
Jan:
I’ll make sure the press people know we’re altering the
plates, and then I’ll go straight to typesetting.
Coach:
Great thinking. Go for it!

Deductive Thinkers

Another way people accept or process facts is through
deductive reasoning. When you mentor people whose minds work
this way, you must make things logical. These people prefer linear,
analytical explanations — point A to point B. You have to go into
detail ... sometimes almost defending your own thought
processes. These people have to understand each step. When you
stop and say, “Okay, now you go ahead and do it,” they’ll
probably say, “Can you run through that one more time, please?”
If you’re a Type A personality, these deductive team members will
test your patience threshold! You will be tempted to shout, “I told
you twice! Why do I have to tell you again?” But they’re not
doing it to upset you. They truly need to understand. Once they do
understand a task, they’ll know it. So, lay it out logically, walk
them through until they get it.

Sensory Thinkers

A third way people learn or accept facts is through sensory
experience. These are “hands-on” people. They have to see it, hear
it, touch it. They have to go through the full experience. Only then
will they “own” the process with you. To best mentor sensory-
oriented people, give them the time they need to explore.

Coaching, Mentoring and Managing

4


Deductive thinkers
have to understand
each step.

Sensory thinkers
are “hands-on”
people.

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