Whether you’re a Visionary or Integrator, learning how to navigate the superpowers and demons that emerge between this dynamic duo is critical.

Having sat in both the Visionary and Integrator seats … I can tell you there is euphoria and struggle on both sides.

So, if you’re a Visionary … please read on and reply if this resonates with you. (I do read your replies!). OR forward to your Integrator!

AND if you’re an Integrator, these are 3 tips that have been put through the ringer with dozens of Visionaries … and they work!!

Not sure what you are – take the test and we’ll send you the results!

We all know Visionaries are big thinkers, dreamers, and can drum up a new idea every other second when wound up!

And working with a visionary can be a dream come true for a true integrator.

HOWEVER, it’s important to remember visionaries are also often highly driven and demanding.

It’s what makes us get started and achieve what seems impossible to most. It’s a trait that is beautiful, amazing, and very much needed when scaling a business.

And a true integrator is someone who can keep up with their pace, put guardrails on their ideas, and help them turn their BHAG into reality.

Here are 3 Tips to Make Magic Happen:

1. Internalize the vision.

The first step to successfully working with a visionary is to fully capture their vision. And be equally motivated to bring it to life!

In order to do this, we MUST get them into a state where we can ask clarifying questions without them feeling like we’re poking holes in the idea.

Actionable Tip:

The next time your visionary is over-talking you and raving about their brilliant new idea … SAY THIS …

“I love your vision and I’m excited to make it a reality with you. To make sure I fully grasp it and can implement down to the nitty-gritty detail, may I ask a few clarifying questions?”

When they say yes … ask well thought-out questions. NOT questions you can research or resource yourself … BUT insights you can ONLY get from them.

And remember, DO NOT ask before gaining agreement. Being a visionary is a very creative process … and this simple approach sets up your next step.

2. Build trust.

There must be trust between a Visionary and Integrator.

Both parties need to know, they are psychologically safe to ideate, debate, discuss, experiment, win and fail.

As an Integrator, we can create this type of relationship container for our visionaries by getting in the boat and rowing hard.

AND on that journey … proactively eliminating roadblocks, flagging potential hazards, organizing the nitty-gritty and providing strategic & tactical updates WITHOUT being prompted.

Actionable Tip:

The quickest way to build trust with a visionary is to figure out the biggest pain point, solve it, and proactively update the visionary with measurable results.

Visionary’s are often labeled control freaks BUT that’s not the full truth. Remember, aside from cash-flow struggles, they typically only freak out when they’re left in the dark, results are subjective or deadlines are repeatedly missed.

3. Accelerate Their Decision Making.

Visionaries are movers and shakers … they’re making big plans, talking with people, planning their next 5 moves, and the list goes on.

BUT, as an Integrator, you need answers from them to make their vision a reality.

When a Visionary knows you fully understand the vision and priorities, you’re in the boat rowing hard with them, and you’ve established immense trust …

Then the fun starts begins … your primary job becomes streamlining their decision-making process. And here’s how …

Actionable Tip:

And you do this by prioritizing their goals and make it easy for them to get the information they need to make informed decisions.

Whether you’re in a meeting or sending an email, when you frame a decision-making question in a “yes or no” format with their perspective in mind – you’ll get what you need to move things forward. It’s a help me, help you situation!

EXAMPLE:

“In an effort to drive revenue faster, I’d like to test adjusting the messaging and on-boarding so we can bring more customers on and build a stronger community. I propose we do XYZ. This will decrease overhead also. I will report back in two weeks with the results. Green-light to test?”

99% of the time this works like a charm AND builds trust … Because you’re demonstrating you’re thinking through all of their hot buttons.

Bonus Tips for Integrators:

• Be positive and enthusiastic – Visionaries are drawn to people who are excited about their work.
• Be proactive – Don’t wait for the visionary to come to you with a problem. Be proactive in identifying and solving problems before they become major issues.
• Be flexible – Visionaries are often changing their minds, so be prepared to adapt to their changing needs, while reminding them of their north star.
• Be patient – Visionaries can be demanding, but it’s important to be patient with them. They are passionate about their work and they want to see their vision come to life.

If you can follow these tips, you will be well on your way to building a successful relationship with a visionary.

You may be surprised at how much you can learn from each other along the way!