The popular problem-solver

We asked Katie Lee about being The Popular Problem Solver

Katie, your Conker Inside results gave you a profile of The Popular Problem Solver. How much did you see yourself in there?

It was so me! I obviously loved reading all the strengths but cringed on a lot of those watchouts because they can be so true even if I hate to admit it. A perceived ‘shallow and superficial style’ made me laugh as it’s something I’m aware of, even though it works pretty well at disarming people.

Of all the attributes, which is the one that’s given you the most challenges across your career?

Probably my overall optimism – I always believe the best of people and that has let me down in under-delivery where I’ve had to pick up the pieces, in not playing politics how I should and also in a more personal capacity getting overexcited about new job opportunities that I should have spent more time analysing.

And which would you consider to be your superpower?

Building high performing teams which is the other side of the ‘optimism coin’ I suppose. I’ve always built brilliant teams around me because I have such belief in people that I can build them up and empower them to deliver, coaching where necessary. I absolutely love building teams – it’s my happy place.

What one piece of advice would you offer to other Popular Problem Solvers?

Slow the f*** down. Problem-solvers work at pace, expect others to do the same and fill in the gaps when they don’t. I don’t know how to work any other way but it’s tiring and if not working at this pace, I don’t feel I’m doing enough. My coach tells me to work at 80% capacity – it’s hard but more sustainable in delivering long-term success.