Reading your clients by using the Q4 Marketing Model: Grounded growers (Q4) PDF Print E-mail
Written by Elsa Simpson   
In this article we focus on the ideal quadrant (Q4) and get to know the needs of the people in this quadrant and how to deal with them. Most of us strive to be in Q4 but this is a difficult act as we all slip back to the other Qs from time to time. So I’ll end with tips on how to stay grounded and keep on growing!
 
Please refer to the previous article on “How to understand yourself and others interpersonally” to find out more about the Q4 Model and about identifying the different types of people you encounter.

Grounded growers (Q4)

Q4 people are skilled in balancing tasks and people. They are concerned about and respectful towards the people they are connecting or working with while they also make things happen. I call them grounded growers.

Grounded growers are grounded as they know who they are and accept who they are. They improve their competencies and they are conscious of what they do and say. People in this position (Q4) can engage or work with people in any of the other quadrants.
 
They need to be treated respectfully and equally (independently) to grow into their full potential.

Self-talk: I’m ok, you’re ok

 
Q4 people are:
  • Self-confident (they behave self-assured)
  • Good team players (they cooperate, give credit, take responsibility and admit mistakes)
  • Willing to be coached (accept help when reasonably needed)
  • Frank and thorough (speak their mind without be bossy)
  • Open to new ideas (listen attentively)
  • Willing to take initiative (solve their own problems)
  • Honest (tell the whole story, not only part of it)
  • Able to take on a challenge (welcome the opportunity)
  • Willing to share their ideas (in abundance)
  • Risk-taking (take calculated risks)
  • Able to confront without hostility (stay calm, objective and factual)
  • Hard-working (steady workers)
  • Kind-hearted (sensitive to others’ feelings).

How to deal with Q4s

  • They want you to be okay with yourself and come to the interaction equally.
  • They want to learn about your product/process and are willing to be coached.
  • They expect honesty and do not want to be tricked into something.
  • They do not like to be talked down to.
  • They like to be challenged and to take some calculated risks.
  • They live with abundance and expect the same.
  • They are empathetic and like to have it returned.

Tips on how to stay grounded and keep on growing

  • Reflect: Have safe spaces where you can reflect on your life on your own (e.g. journaling) or with someone (e.g. coaching, counselling or talking to a friend or colleague). Stay aware of overreactions and reflect on why it happened and where it is coming from.
  • Get new input: Get new input on an ongoing basis by reading interesting or challenging books or attending workshops.
  • Ask for feedback: Invite people to give you feedback on your behaviour or performance.
We all have a favourite quadrant where we slide into from time to time. When you slip out of it, forgive yourself, reflect and get on with life!

For a deeper understanding of your dealings with clients, please contact Elsa Simpson. Elsa is an experienced facilitator, trainer and counsellor. She conducts workshops and team-builds as well as individual processes for personal growth and development, within organisations as well as with private individuals. Contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , 021 982 7038, 083 782 1249 or visit www.clariact.com.