PXT Select Conformity

In the video, Robin explains what the PXT Select is measuring with the scale called Conformity and how this is important in your selection and managing decisions.

 

Conformity Scale

In this video, I’m going to be talking about the scale called Conformity on the PXT Select Assessment.

Here, we are talking about how one reacts to rules and limits set by authority.  So in other words, are you more strong-willed or do you tend to be more compliant?

Strong-willed Individuals

Strong-willed individuals see excessive feedback and advice as a barrier to productivity.  They can see rules and regulations as restrictive, and they prefer to do things their own way.  They aren’t going to go along with a plan they don’t believe in just because somebody has told them to do so.

These strong-willed individuals are individualistic in their thinking, and they are willing to question things.  So, they can be ideal in a position that requires a lot of exploration for new processes or procedures.  They can be creative and spontaneous. They can advocate for change, but they can also be cautious with authority figures.

Compliant Individuals

On the other end of the spectrum are individuals who are very compliant.  They tend to stay within the established guidelines and follow rules and processes.  They believe organizational hierarchies are fair, and even if an organization’s rules don’t seem to make sense, they feel compelled to adhere to them, anyhow.

These individuals are more conventional.  They have a desire to please.  As I mentioned, they like to follow the rules.  So, if you have a position that has a lot of existing processes and procedures established that can’t be modified or changed, this is the ideal scenario.  Somebody can come in and follow those guidelines and procedures to a T, versus trying to fix what’s not broken.

Coexisting

As you can see, these styles are very different.  So when you have a strict rule follower and a maverick come together, they can really clash.  The trick is really to understand what does the situation need, whether it’s a particular project or task or someone’s role.  Does the situation need someone who is more creative and spontaneous?   Or, do we need to have this idea of compliance and following processes and procedures?  Once we understand the needs of that particular situation, then we can help the individual, whether it’s yourself or someone that you’re managing, understand what that fit is.  Does the natural approach work perfectly?  Great!  If not, then we need to help them see how being more flexible or more rigid will create much better outcomes.