Ever come across someone who’s skeptical when you propose a solution or an idea that doesn’t seem practical to them?
You may be dealing with a Magician archetype! A Magician client or teammate is very methodical, detail-oriented, and thorough. They like to find clues and insights that are not readily discoverable. They pride themselves in their attention to detail. They’re often skeptical when you propose a solution or an idea that doesn’t seem practical to them.
So, what’s the best way to win their support? I’ve found that it’s useful not to try and use big-picture thinking or talk in visionary terms when you’re dealing with detail-oriented Magicians. Instead, talk about specifics and show them what’s going on behind the scenes. Show them how you’ve thought through the idea step-by-step.
I’d recommend that you outline specifically each potential objection they may have or each potential question they may ask you. Then, prepare yourself with crystal-clear answers to those questions and objections. This shows that you’ve done the homework, and you’ve thought through each step of the magic trick you’re expecting them to pull off.
Now, if they’re expecting you to pull off a magic trick of sorts, try to enlist them in the process. Show them the details behind what it would take for you to give them what they’re asking for. For example, someone on your team may be asking you for a pay raise. Or, they may want a new piece of equipment to help them do their job better.
You could delve into the details of what it would take to get them what they’re asking for so that you can enroll them in the process of getting it done. This way, you don’t have to feel the pressure of trying to perform magic all on your own. You can get them to perform the magic with you so that together, you can achieve the results you both want.
So, to recap, when you’re dealing with a very detail-oriented person:
Step 1: Recognize and applaud the Magician archetype. That’s the frame of mind the other person is in right now.
Step 2: Outline the specific steps that are required to pull off the magic trick. Set expectations that it’s not as simple as it seems and outline the specific things they can do on their end to make the magic happen.
When you take this approach, you can enlist the other person in the process of creating the magic formula with you, instead of feeling like you have to do it all on your own. This reduces your stress level and makes it more feasible for you to achieve the results you’re looking for.
