careernav.

Intelligence is a wonderful quality. Debate continues on whether there is such a factor as ‘general intelligence’ or is ‘specific intelligence’ more realistic. Others say intelligence can be categorised as analytical, creative or practical.

People are seldom good at all activities but usually excel in a smaller range of activities. Were they born like that or were they were taught? Do they think a particular way or was it the only way they knew?

If ‘Creative Thinkers’ are often the envy of society, then ‘Analytical Thinkers ‘ are surely the backbone of society and they too have a fantastic range of career opportunities available to them. Their efforts will frequently deliver problem solving, utilise complexity of thought and overcome major obstacles to find a solution. Their thinking is often mathematically or science based, full of logical and sequential thought, based upon rich and accurate information. You can be sure their advice is mistake free.They too attain high achievement, immense personal satisfaction, reward and recognition, not to mention bucket loads of money.

If this includes you, then some great careers available include;

Analytical thinkers enjoy problem solving, finding fact based solutions, gathering information, deciphering data, finding facts and proof of evidence. Structure and process is the environment they feel most comfortable with, they must get it right preferably first time and will stick with their analysis until they have reached their personal criteria for success. They fear mistakes.

If your career depends on your analytical thinking, the management style of your immediate boss is important you understand. Often managers have high achievement, steam roller styles with a preparedness to take calculated risks. They will often create artificial deadlines. As an analytical thinker, you are likely not to respond to this style. Accuracy and reliability are more important than deadlines and checking and rechecking results to reduce commercial risk. Tell them the management style you best respond too and what style will get the best quality of work from you.

Also be aware of the image you project. Analytical thinkers can often fall into the trap of being introverted, lost within the world of research and fact finding detached from others. Your natural conservatism, pedantic eye for detail is easily misunderstood as being cold and reserved, overly cautious and too steady as she goes.  Take care your analytical style does not get you overlooked for leadership opportunities. Practice juggling the art of being a chameleon – change your style to suit the occasion.

Why not share your thoughts with us...