As a leader, we should be very aware of which team types we have in our team, which ones we still need, and how to promote collaboration between the individual characters.
How does each hero tick?
1. The Incredible Hulk (The Doer)
You can always send a Hulk into action immediately. He tackles the most difficult tasks without self-doubt, fearing no consequences. However, due to his speed and forcefulness, he may sometimes leave a small trail of destruction. This means that in business, the margin of error may be slightly higher.
He is self-confident, energetic, and adept at overcoming difficulties to achieve results.
A Hulk loves quick results, fast decisions, freedom, and authority. He looks for opportunities for personal achievements and enjoys acting in an extroverted manner.
2. Iron Man/Tony Stark (The Expressive)
For an Iron Man, making a grand entrance is always the most important. He not only shines himself but also makes his teammates shine through style and class. He showcases everything he can do and has so that the whole world can see who he is.
He is sociable, expressive, and achieves results through collaboration with others. He is always full of ideas and drives every meeting forward.
A Tony Stark loves socializing and doesn't shy away from being in the spotlight. His strength lies in expressiveness, and he seizes opportunities to make suggestions.
Iron Man is suitable for tasks in consulting and training, motivating colleagues for a task, and assisting others.
3. Batman (The Analyst)
A Batman would never strike back without a plan. He first retreats to his Batcave to work on weapons and a clever plan. Only when he has considered all consequences and is fully prepared will he enter the battle.
He is objectively critical and detail-oriented. Batman loves regulated circumstances, a secure environment, safety, and precision. He needs this space to be able to verify results and, if necessary, criticize performances.
He is suitable for tasks with clear instructions, guidelines, and standards. Also for planning complex processes, carrying out fine work and detailed tasks. He loves tasks within a group with clear task boundaries.
4. Captain America (The Team Player)
Captain America is always connected to his team and never makes decisions that would harm any of his teammates. He is loyal and proves it at all times. He is patient, a good listener, stable, and loyal. He achieves results through endurance and has a calming effect on his colleagues.
Steve Rogers loves accepted work practices in a stable environment. He needs opportunities to develop his special abilities. He also loves tasks that remain consistent in the long term and holistic performance recognition.
He is suitable for areas where problems can be solved together with others.
How does this manifest in daily business?
You are in a meeting and the coffee is finished. But what happens and how do the individual team members act?
Captain America apologizes, takes responsibility, and asks who he can make a new coffee or even a cappuccino for.
Iron Man replies that he doesn't need to ask everyone. He simply assigns someone to go get new, but above all, good coffee and also bring new fancy cups.
Meanwhile, Batman is already scribbling on his notepad, analyzing why the coffee ran out in the first place.
And where is Hulk actually? He finds the whole discussion silly and is no longer there. He's already next door at the supermarket buying ten bags of coffee. It should definitely be enough.
What chaos!
So what can you do?
You can see that the differences can be enormous. This poses a huge conflict potential, especially in communication and mutual understanding. However, if you manage to harness these strengths, you will create a strong team of heroes with incredible impact.
The same applies when looking for a business partner. Analyze which hero character you are and then find your perfect counterpart.
- Take the team type test yourself and with your team. Identify which heroes you have in your team.
- Create an understanding in your team for the different strengths and weaknesses of your members.
- Utilize the strengths of your team members by assigning them appropriate tasks.
So, who will you bring into your team next?
Your Heroes Maker
Marcus Appelt