I love movies and books that are more about the characters and less about the action. I’m addicted to character study so much that when presented with the opportunity to watch an action movie (where character development is typically shallow) or do something tedious like pay bills, do my taxes, or sort nuts and bolts, I opt for any or all the latter. 

Characters Count

Characters count, and I am addicted to character study, observing their actions in different settings, watching their thought processes develop over time, and seeing them navigate large and small challenges. 

This emphasis on studying the characters in the workplace is valuable for both managers and contributors. 

In my experience, the best managers are devoted students of the art of character study—not out of some desire to play armchair psychologist, but rather out of the desire to help. 

These managers are keen observers of how people perform and conduct themselves across a range of situations. They look for clues that point to superpowers and situations that expose or amplify gaps. And they use these insights by tailoring their feedback and coaching to the individual.

Contributors observe others for clues on how to engage them, team with them, and whom they can trust to support them in challenging moments. And for all of us, it pays to observe the boss and look for hot buttons, concerns, goals, and aspirations. 

Observing the Character is Critical for Career Development

A good manager is focused on what inspires their team members and helps them find more of it, especially when it comes to growing their careers.

I was surprised as a young professional when my manager offered her views on my ability to work with groups. “Your future will be about guiding groups to achieve big things,” she offered during one of my performance reviews. “Why do you think this?” I asked. “Because I’ve watched how people react to you,” she answered.

I appreciated her paying attention to me and using her observations to support my career growth. Ultimately, she observed that guiding and teaching in group settings energizes me, allowing me to do my best at helping others. It’s beyond important to me—it’s a part of me fulfilling my purpose in my career.

Savvy Contributors are Good Observers as Well

A good contributor is tuned in to the realities of team members and helps them achieve what’s important to them. 

A client shared her example with me. “I watched as this talented individual chased jobs he thought he wanted, yet all were roles that failed to focus on his superpowers. He struggled and failed several times. When he raised his frustration with me, I asked him why he wasn’t placing himself in situations where his true strengths would be invaluable in producing success. He thought about it, adjusted his approach, and his career started to flourish.”

The Bottom-Line for Now:

It pays to be a student of people. You gain insights to strengthen your working arrangements and help people succeed with issues important to them. Take time away from living the action to observing the characters in the action. The insights are priceless. 

Art's Signature