Navigating the mindset polarities: gig versus traditional

It is not a question of "either or", but rather a question of "both, when".

Photo by Raphael Schaller, Unsplash

The gig mindset and the traditional mindset, apparently opposite characteristics, are actually interdependent and complement each other. They are polarities. It is not a question of "either or", but rather a question of "both, when". The trick is to get the right balance at the right time.

The vast majority of organizations do not have a meaningful balance between these mindsets. Processes, roles and management practices are aligned to the traditional way of working. Gig mindset behaviors are rarely encouraged, and sometimes even sanctioned. This does not bode well for the future. One reason is that the gig mindset reinforces resilience, and is therefore essential today for organizations. I'll share more on that later.

I am adopting Barry Johnson's polarity management model to help people find the right balance between gig and traditional mindsets in their organizations.  The model takes emotion and conflict off the table, and leads people to a greater understanding and ability to define actions that work for their circumstances. 

Check out my full article on LinkedIn (or on my website). I describe the steps and illustrate how to position them in a adaptive strategy. If you decide to give polarity management a try in your organization as you develop new cultures and work practices, get in touch, as I'm interested in comparing results in different industries and contexts.