Working with Type and Living Light

OKA's Hassan Kamel has been managing a long-term leadership development project with the US Air Force. Now in its fifth year, the program focuses on improving the leadership and mentorship skills of Military Training Instructors. The Air Force culture, in type terms, is very STJ, and Hassan has learned a lot about how to interact with and function within such a highly structured and hierarchical environment. He recently provided a teleseminar for the APTi e-Chapter on the topic, and we wanted to have him follow-up by sharing some of his best practices:

Top 4 points to consider when engaging with STJ cultures:

1. Use specific & concrete examples:

Ideally, create environment-specific scenarios, preferably from their immediate work situations. If you can't find one, then use the example of physical exercise. STJ cultures may want to check the training box to indicate attendance at a professional development training, believing that mere attendance will convey needed knowledge of leadership, communication, or whatever the topic is. The reality of the situation is that learning how to be a leader or a good communicator is like exercising. You don't work out by attending one workshop or seminar. It takes learning, practicing...etc. Repetition is paramount in STJ learning style and cultures. Through repetition, one builds stamina, muscle and agility.

2. Credibility takes evidence accumulated over time:

Take the time to establish your credibility. Many things new and untried will meet with skepticism: face it and drive on. You may be the expert with your tool or in your field, but establishing your credibility may need to be coupled by taking the time to observe and learn about their culture. Often STJ cultures have written procedures, a vision, and a mission. However, the reality of the culture and the dynamics may be completely different and sometimes counter to what is written or documented. STJ cultures often resonate with the specific details of your experience and resume, but be specific and detailed about linking your expertise and experience with the particulars of their world and values.

3. Think practicality and application:

Be practical with your examples and once learning is established, help them see where they can apply the learning to their specific environment. Follow-up to ensure the learning becomes new behavior. Once STJ cultures see that the knowledge is practical, procedures and standardization will make those insights new policy. The power of the written procedure cannot be underestimated in the STJ world. Long-lasting change comes via written procedures.

4. Show up and fit in:

Take every opportunity to attend organizations formal and informal functions or activities, especially when invited to do so. This illustrates your respect of and curiosity about their culture.