In my last train the trainer blog I introduced the usefulness of using the iMA questionnaire, created by James Knight, to assist both delegates and lead trainers during train the trainer programmes. Over the next four blogs I will highlight each of the categories (colours) and show how trainers and delegates alike can use the information to improve their understanding of an individual’s communication skills. This valuable information can be used to develop trainer skills. This blog features the category of High Reds.
The characteristics of High Reds are:
- Independent / Strong-willed
- High ego strength
- Prefers maximum freedom to manage self
- Low tolerance for feelings of others
- Wants immediate results
- Decisive / Goal oriented
- Cool and competitive
- Accepts challenges
- Takes authority / Solves problems
- Decisive actions and decisions
- Likes control / Dislikes inaction
- Cool, independent and competitive
- Works impressively by him/herself
- Good administrative skills
- Dominant / Seeks control
- Fast, impatient pace
How the trainer should respond to High Reds
| High Red characteristics | Trainer action | |
| Emphasis | Dominance, shaping the environment by overcoming opposition to accomplish results | High Red delegates may want to take control of discussions, use their input as appropriate and ensure that other delegates have an equal say |
| Behaviour | Self-confident and self-contained | This can be misunderstood in the training room, also watch for High Reds being over confident and running before they can walk |
| Pace | Fast and deliberate | Keep the pace up and ensure High Reds are well occupied |
| Priority | The task | Keep the learning focussed, don’t go off on a tangent too often or this will irritate |
| Focus | The results | Remind High Reds of the learning objectives and confirm against key objectives as the programme unfolds |
| Irritation | Wasting time, “touchy-feely” behaviour that blocks action/results | Keep the learning pragmatic and reduce anything pink and fluffy |
| For security | Relies on being in control | Give High Reds choice wherever possible to allow them to feel they are making the decisions, not you |
By Kasmin Cooney OBE | Righttrack’s Managing Director