G-shaped People

G-shaped people are G-shaped because of their strong group orientation. G-shaped people are typically loyal followers and diligent stewards of the group and group harmony. The “G” represents looking around or surveying the will/needs/direction of the group before taking action.

So how do we see G-shaped people? 

• We believe that approximately 11% of working adults are G-shaped.*
• At their best they are the glue, heart and soul of the group, team, community.
• At their worst they are the conformist, ruthlessly political and insular. 
• As leaders they will often become champions or crusaders for the party line. Generally G-shaped people are not risk takers.
• Tend to focus on appearance and clearly defined group norms to orient thinking and action.
• Are often the “home-makers” of the group as they strive to enhance group harmony and cement their position/role within the group.
• Status and security are important and often common core values.
• May react strongly, decisively and aggressively to combat perceived threats to group stability or own place in the group.
• G-shaped people are often strong advocates for tradition, following the rules and proceeding with caution.
• May fall into “group think” or blind adherence to rules or policy.
• Work well within clearly defined boundaries (where’s the manual?) and expect strong, clear leadership.
• Try to stand out by doing and being “good.” 
• G-shaped people thrive when they feel valued and praised as an integral part of the group.
• Are unlikely to be whistleblowers or challenge conventional thinking or wisdom.

G-shaped people each have their unique approach to dealing with life in the group. The above points are generalizations we have observed along the way as we helped G-shaped people move to “I”. In general, G-shaped people are the stalwarts of any team. In work, communities G-shaped people help hold things together, help maintain group norms, traditions and order. The value of a G-shaped perspective is clear. The limitations of “G” are also clear. When faced with change or the need for “out of the box” or lateral thinking, G-shaped people may falter or suffer as the stress of taking that perceived risk is high for them. The move from “G” to “I” is emblematic of the traditional move from adolescence to adulthood. A G-shaped perspective is a highly peer oriented perspective. I-shaped capacity provides the potential for a more independent and less group dependent perspective. For such a move to take place smoothly and cleanly it needs to be understood, encouraged and supported as much as possible. Helping people, communities, organizations and institutions evolve their capacity is our work and passion at Interkannections.

 

*Based on research done by Susanne Cook-Greuter

Posted 08 May 08 by Zach Smith