Roundabout or a Road block?

I've worked with a lot of organisations, teams and individuals in my career.

During my time I've tended to come across individuals who can be described as 'Roundabouts' or 'Road blockers'. 

What's that you say? Well its those people who either have a 'can do' attitude or a 'more than my jobs worth approach'.

With customer centric strategies adopted by more and more companies and focus, rightly so, being emphasised on going that extra mile for excellence/customer satisfaction, it still surprises me to come across 'road blockers'.

I'm sure you've experienced them, know them and may even work with them. They can be, like road blocks, so frustrating to the drive toward your or your customers goals. The people who tend to say "ohh, I'm not sure about that..." or take a sharp in take of breath...or "I need to think about that/check the precident on that"

In trying to service our customers needs we experience such road blockers.

Now lets be clear..we never ask anyone to do anything that's illegal, in breach of copyright, IP, moral or ethical codes of conduct. Yet we still come across professionals, experts and individuals that appear to be rowing in the wrong direction!

Navigating Road blocks

So how do you deal with Road blockers? Well historically I used to let my frustration drive my actions. I decided that if 'they' weren't willing to play...then I'd distance myself from them and find someone who was on the same page...and who'd help achieve the goals. Seeking out the shortest route as it were.

This may not always be an option though, so in terms of a longer term strategy it has to be about communication.

You need to explain the bigger picture, explain the context of your requst. You also have to clarify the exact requirement of them as well as reducing their concern over the risk/cost/fear or factor impacting on them.

Only by doing this will you stand a chance of removing the Road block and preventing further blockers in the future with them.

Happy driving!