Work matters

Who inspires you? (And how it affects you in the office!)

We’re all inspired by people. Whether it’s strong leadership, an ability to bring people together or keeping gracious and calm under pressure, some people have something in them that others are drawn to.

Quite often, of course, those we aspire to are in the public eye.

Whether your interests are more Beyoncé than Barack Obama, there are few of us who can’t say there is someone famous who we admire.

But whether it’s admiring them or actually emulating them, the person you find inspirational says a lot about your personality – something that can have ramifications in the office.

It’s important to have some insight into the kind of person you are, and how your colleagues view you. After all, misreading how you come across affects everything from how effective you are to your prospects for promotion.

As with all things, there are two sides to this story. There are strengths and weaknesses to every personality type.

However, by understanding both you have a better chance of maximising your professional potential. And that’s got to be a good thing, right?

Life coaches and psychologists Nik and Eva Speakman know this better than most, having worked with a number of individuals and organisations to enhance morale and to help people project themselves in a more positive way.

So, take a glance at our main character types below – alongside Nik and Eva’s comments. Spot anyone familiar?

Are you inspired by Alan Sugar?

Nik says: “You are admired for your strength of character, and you are, without doubt, ‘top dog’. However, you could intimidate your co-workers, and due to your competitive nature you often prevent others from progressing further if they are in competition with you.”

Are you inspired by Jennifer Aniston?

Eva says: “You are the girl next door – nice, friendly and easy-going. However, to retain this popularity you risk being a fence-sitter. Being eager to please and not taking sides means you can be seen as a bit bland and easy to manipulate, and will frequently be asked to do the jobs your colleagues can’t be bothered to do.”

Are you inspired by Jonathan Ross?

Nik says: “You consider yourself ‘the funny one’, with your primary function being to entertain at office parties or group meetings. Be wary of slipping into office clown territory, however, where people don’t take you seriously. Bear in mind, too, that although people like you, they might not want to be associated with your frivolous persona.”

Are you inspired by Karren Brady?

Eva says: “You are Ms Fix It. Like the former MD of Birmingham City football club and The Apprentice co-star, not only are you very capable and focused, but you’ve also achieved a lot in your career. Although people admire you professionally, you might find that you are avoided socially, and excluded from office banter. However, be aware that you need soft, social skills as much as professional ones.”

Are you inspired by Davina McCall?

Nik says: “Everyone is your friend, and you’re a fantastic agony aunt and confidant. Your qualities tend to be personal as opposed to professional, and as a result it’s unlikely you will be taken seriously with any business decisions.”

Are you inspired by Madonna?

Eva says: “Although admired for your tenacity and single-mindedness, you are without doubt the staff member most gossiped about. Your drive can mean that you take yourself a bit too seriously, leaving your colleagues to believe you have a superiority complex.”

Are you inspired by Angelina Jolie?

Nik says: “You are the multi-tasker extraordinaire. You’re good at everything and have your fingers in many pies. Although you could inspire jealousy in co-workers, your main concern should be that you are not spreading yourself too thinly.”

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