Working With Mismatchers
1. Use them as fault-finders. Everyone has their own special values, and sniffing out gaps or inaccuracies is at or near the top of the list for mismatchers. Leave them out of brainstorming activities, but bring them in once those ideas have been formed and ask them to seek out areas for improvement.
2. For polarity responders (extreme mismatchers), try using reverse psychology. Tell them to do the exact opposite of what you want them to do.
3. Phrase your requests and ideas in the negative. Add these phrases before suggesting anything:
“You are probably are not going to like this.”
“You are probably not going to agree with this.”
“I had an idea that probably won’t work, but I wanted to see what you think.”
“This may be the worst idea that I’ve ever had.”
“I don’t know if this is something you’d like to be involved in.”
Remember, the term “mismatcher” is not a simple label to slander someone with, but rather a way to better understand and ultimately better communicate with clients and co-workers. Mismatchers are some of the smartest people in our society and frequently are the most accomplished engineers, software programmers, attorneys, CPAs, economists and managers. They tend to be more analytical and very intelligent.
