5 People Who Lead Together

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There are five basic types of influencers. As we look at these roles, let’s remember that dynamics and environments continually change but the core gifts, abilities, and tendencies of people generally don’t. We can all agree that strength-based positions and appropriate responsibilities ultimately produce higher levels of effectiveness; so as individuals, it is imperative that we evaluate if a “natural fit” is being offered before accepting a role of leadership or participating within a team of collaborators. Below are basic descriptions of basic personality types we find weaved throughout history and may help in identifying the strengths of those willing to accept the challenge of influencing others within a group or team. The first letter of each personality type makes the acrostic P.R.I.N.T. Which one are you? (See quiz at the end)

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Pioneer (Apostle)

The adventurer and initial team builder has been called by many names. The words entrepreneur, visionary, broker, missionary, innovator or CEO often catches the attention of others, but many times this leadership type finds it difficult to contributing in more established ways for extended periods of time. The person who is willing to “go” and recruit a skilled team to accomplish a goal must have an extraordinary amount of energy and resources. Because a pioneer generally doesn’t accomplish lasting results without a team, training and duplication of effort is the key to their success. A mature pioneer will find a healthy way to delegate appropriately and consistently.

Revealer (Prophet)

Revealers and truth tellers have a way of emphasizes clarity and direction with very certain terms, imagery, analogies and ideas. This person helps keep the team on the right track and acts as a compass. Generally they will find a way to communicate the perceived truth as it becomes available. The revealer often thinks in terms of black and white so changes in direction or vision may take time for this person to process. A mature version of this talent demonstrates as a justice crusader who can evaluate situations appropriately while greatly benefiting a team. If this strength isn’t developed, they can become disconnected, very disruptive and may find themselves without relational equity or influence.
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eyeglasses-MZS8G9U(1)

Revealer (Prophet)

Revealers and truth tellers have a way of emphasizes clarity and direction with very certain terms, imagery, analogies and ideas. This person helps keep the team on the right track and acts as a compass. Generally they will find a way to communicate the perceived truth as it becomes available. The revealer often thinks in terms of black and white so changes in direction or vision may take time for this person to process. A mature version of this talent demonstrates as a justice crusader who can evaluate situations appropriately while greatly benefiting a team. If this strength isn’t developed, they can become disconnected, very disruptive and may find themselves without relational equity or influence.
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Informer (Teacher)

Training and learning seems to be enjoyed more by some leaders, those who pride themselves in helping others gain access to knowledge can greatly improve efficiency and effectiveness. Information is their tool of choice and they present in a way that can be remembered. Written and verbal communication are keys to this person being successful. In today’s day of random “information overload”, if laser focused, this strength can be a great asset to any team. The caution for this person would be giving too much information at one time or irrelevant facts that don’t bring value to the team.

Nurturer (Pastor)

Coaching and caring is a long-term strategy for some leaders. This person treats people like a gardener would treat a valuable crop and is very attentive. While vocations like counselors, pastors, doctors, nurses and farmers are often nurturers, most other businesses also need leaders to serve clients with excellence (customer care). Nurturers have a difficult time with letting go of difficult situations or people, but are well loved because they treat others with genuine concern. This personality type must be mindful of the co-dependent trap and getting overly focused on the most needy and time intensive situations.
teacher-writing-on-whiteboard-3RW7452(1)
teacher-writing-on-whiteboard-3RW7452(1)

Nurturer (Pastor)

Coaching and caring is a long-term strategy for some leaders. This person treats people like a gardener would treat a valuable crop and is very attentive. While vocations like counselors, pastors, doctors, nurses and farmers are often nurturers, most other businesses also need leaders to serve clients with excellence (customer care). Nurturers have a difficult time with letting go of difficult situations or people, but are well loved because they treat others with genuine concern. This personality type must be mindful of the co-dependent trap and getting overly focused on the most needy and time intensive situations.
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Teller (Evangelist)

Every business and organization needs evangelists sharing the “Good News” about products, services or may simply have important messages for others to consider. These conversation-focused people find a way to connect with an audience needing a nudge while introducing them to something they may want or need. This influencer magnetically draws others toward a decision by asking great questions that guide those who are truly engaged with the conversation or narrative. This personality-type may come across as pushy and should be careful to listen carefully while not getting frustrated with those who don’t make decisions quickly. The best chance for effectiveness as a teller is simply being consistent and skillful with the message to as many “open ears” as possible.

Final Thoughts:

When identifying patterns and tendencies within people from various time periods and cultures, we find that similar concepts naturally emerge. Below is a survey of very basic questions to help understand your strengths according to the five major leadership roles (five-fold ministry) found in the ancient Biblical text written by one of the greatest “Pioneers” in history to a group of Christians located in western Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Learn more about these major official roles found in religious leadership by reading Ephesians chapter 4.

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