How Different Personalities React to Change at Work

CHOLERIC/RED: Vision for Change

• Invites change for production purposes.

• Excellent with vision ideas.

• Goal-oriented (good at anticipating change).

• Not afraid of transition.

Considerations:

• Needs to listen carefully to concerns of staff.

• Must allow time for staff to process need for change.

• Delegates the details necessary in transition.

• Provides incentives to staff.

MELANCHOLY/BLUE: Quality in Change

• Must become flexible and less territorial with new change.

• Good to analyze and chart out details for change.

• Listens well to concerns of staff.

• Can slow process down because of perfectionism standards.

Considerations:

• Cares what staff feels too much in change.

• Don’t overanalyze or personalize the reason for change.

• Chart out incentive plan for staff.

PHLEGMATIC/GREEN: Keeps Peace in Change

• Appreciates a logical, clear plan for change.

• Needs time to chart out and process their involvement in change.

• Good mediator or liaison between staff and management.

• Keeps peace in transition process.

Considerations:

• Keep within boundaries and deadlines through the change process.

• Do not procrastinate your responsibilities in transition period.

• Share your thoughts relative to change—remember your insights are logical and needed.

SANGUINE/YELLOW: Motivation with Change

• Communicates positive spin on new changes for staff and organization.

• Keeps staff moving with good attitudes through transition.

• Organizes ongoing incremental celebrations and events to signal new beginnings.

Considerations:

• Remain a team player through change.

• Don’t minimize others’ struggle with change.

• Stay loyal with your new role in change process.