Managing a High D in a Project – Leading Fast, Direct, and Results-Driven Personalities

Episode Overview: In today’s episode, we tackle how to manage and delegate effectively to High D personalities in project settings. High D’s are driven, competitive, and results-focused, but they don’t like being micromanaged. However, if left completely unchecked, they may make decisions that don’t align with the bigger picture. So how do you keep them engaged, accountable, and on track—without slowing them down? Let’s dive in. Show Notes - Managing High D Personalities in Projects The Integrated Leader Podcast | Season 3, Episode [#] Episode Overview: In today’s episode, we tackle how to manage and delegate effectively to High D personalities in project settings. High D’s are driven, competitive, and results-focused, but they don’t like being micromanaged. However, if left completely unchecked, they may make decisions that don’t align with the bigger picture. So how do you keep them engaged, accountable, and on track—without slowing them down? Let’s dive in. Key Takeaways: ✅ How to Delegate to a High D Without Power Struggles • High D’s want ownership, not step-by-step instructions. • Instead of dictating tasks, ask how they plan to approach the goal. • Example: Instead of “I need you to complete this report,” say, “You’re responsible for delivering this result by Friday. How do you want to approach it?” • Frame tasks as challenges to keep them motivated. ✅ Clear & Direct Communication Works Best • Skip the small talk—be straightforward and concise. • Instead of “Would you be able to look at this?”, say “I need this done by Thursday.” • High D’s don’t enjoy lengthy discussions—stick to the facts and focus on outcomes. ✅ How to Check In Without Slowing Them Down • High D’s don’t naturally volunteer updates, so use a structured process: • Ask for a three-point update: • What’s done? • What’s in progress? • What’s getting in the way? • Example: “Shoot me a quick three-point update by Wednesday so I can clear any roadblocks for you.” • Use short, results-driven check-ins rather than long meetings. • Example: Instead of a meeting, just ask “Are we still on track for the deadline?” ✅ Holding a High D Accountable • If they miss a deadline, address it directly with factual feedback. • Instead of “Hey, I noticed this didn’t get done, can we talk about it?”, say “This didn’t get done—what happened and how are you fixing it?” • Tie accountability to results, not processes. • Example: Instead of “You didn’t follow the system,” say “We’re behind schedule—what’s your plan to get us back on track?” • High D’s respect clear expectations and direct consequences—lay them out upfront. Mentioned in This Episode: • DISC Model – Understanding how High D’s operate in leadership and project management. • Delegation Strategies – How to assign tasks without micromanaging. • Effective Check-ins – Keeping High D’s accountable without wasting time. Subscribe & Stay Tuned: If this episode was helpful, subscribe and share it with another leader who works with High D personalities! Coming up next: 🎙️ Managing High I Personalities in Projects! High I’s bring big energy, creativity, and ideas, but can struggle with follow-through and deadlines. If you lead someone who loves brainstorming but forgets details, don’t miss tomorrow’s episode! 💡 Thanks for tuning in! See you next time on The Integrated Leader Podcast! #Leadership #ProjectManagement #DISCModel #HighD #Teamwork #TheIntegratedLeaderPodcast