Working in small self-selected groups, individually answer the following questions honestly. If necessary think how you would be likely to behave in the given situation. Then compare and discuss responses with your colleagues. (Your tutor will provide one suggested set of guidelines.)

I trust others to get the work done on time and to a good standard

(a) Rarely

(b) Generally

(c) Always

I find other people have better ideas than me

(a) Rarely

(b) Sometimes

(c) Often

I normally find I am right

(a) Mostly

(b) Sometimes

(c) It depends on your perspective

During the course of a meeting, do you:

(a) Take notes, because someone has to?

(b) Take down the important points?

(c) Assume someone else is paying attention?

At the end of the day are you more likely to:

(a) Stay until you have returned every email before going home?

(b) Make a list of relevant things to tackle tomorrow?

(c) Start calling around your colleagues to see who wants to go out for a drink?

When faced with a menu in a restaurant, do you:

(a) Think it is sensible to order for everyone to save time?

(b) Ask everyone else what they would like first and then order?

(c) Wait until it’s your turn to order?

Do you feel that if you were to take a holiday your business would:

(a) Fall apart because no one knows how to do anything properly?

(b) Suffer a bit, but not as much as it would were you not to have a holiday?

(c) Allow others a chance to take charge and show what they can do?

When planning a trip, do you:

(a) Allow extra time for traffic and unexpected delays and bring a briefcase full of work to occupy your time in case you arrive early?

(b) Follow the airline’s instructions?

(c) Wait until the last minute, at which point you rush like mad?

When setting off on holiday, do you:

(a) Go through everyone’s suitcase to make sure it is packed properly before heading off?

(b) Pack your suitcase and figure everyone else can do their own?

(c) Pack when the taxi arrives?

Discussion

■ Do you think you have controlling issues or can you exercise flexibility?

■ How would you draw the line between being easygoing and being irresponsible?

■ To what extent do you see yourself as a team player and how does this fit with your answers?