PeopleSmart in Business eBook - The Platinum Rule

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Three: How Will You Know One When You Meet One?
sonal?” or “If I’m asking uncomfortable questions, how could you let
me know so I don’t make a problem for either of us?” Th ey may relax
more if they think they have an out.
Careful and correct
Like Steady Relaters, Cautious Th inkers tend to express themselves
in a rather tentative manner. “I’ll check on that and let you know tomorrow.”
Or they may want to provide you with information so you
can form your own conclusions. “I have a copy of the Governor’s report
in my fi les. If I send it to you, perhaps you can fi nd what you’re
looking for.” Both these approaches satisfy Cautious Th inkers’ need
for caution and correctness. Th ey simply may not want to get misquoted
or, possibly, involved in the fi rst place.
How Will You Know a Cautious Thinker by Letter?
Cautious Th inkers typically send letters to clarify or explain positions.
Consequently, these letters may become rather long and fi lled
with data. “I was struck by the similarities between the Noonan and
Kilgary lawsuits.” But they may also be somewhat reserved or vague.
“I’m researching a company’s fi le now that I literally can’t talk about.”
Or the letter may be on the short side with enclosures, citings, or
references to specifi c information. Whether they prefer the long or
short form, they usually concentrate on processing data. Th ey like
to cover their bases so they are neither misinterpreted, incomplete,
nor incorrect.
Like Dominant Directors, in the interest of time, they may sign
personal cards with just their names or with individual mottos, like
“In the spirit of growth, Jonathan Williams.” Even if you know them
well, this type may include their surnames so there’s no mistaking
who sent this card.