Irene was the type of employee every manager dreamed of. Hardworking and dedicated, she excelled in her role as lead project manager. Her conscientious nature meant tasks were done on time and that every detail was accounted for. Her knack for spotting and navigating nuance was invaluable in the organization’s matrixed environment. Many even joked that Irene was the “heartbeat” of the team – the one who everyone turned to for compassion, care, and moral support.
Sensitivity Can Be a Superpower at Work
Here are the tools managers need to properly supervise, nurture, and retain their sensitive employees.
April 13, 2023
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Summary.
High sensitivity is a trait that’s been researched for over 30 years, and is found within 15% to 30% of the population. Managing a highly sensitive person (HSP) involves a learning curve, but is necessary if you want to take advantage of the assets they have to offer your team and company. The author outlines four steps for managers to try: 1) Shift your perspective and recognize that sensitivity is a natural variation in personality and not a flaw. 2) Provide clarity about the scope of their role, goals, and exactly what is expected of them. 3) Give them an opportunity to deliberate and formulate responses instead of being put on the spot. 4) Understand that the need for decompression is even more urgent for HSPs. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of highly sensitive team members, managers can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture that benefits everyone.