Opinion: Perfectionists have a positive impact on results

Perfectionism is often viewed negatively, but when used in moderation, it can be a valuable asset in the workplace. Striving for perfection enhances productivity, attention to detail and the quality of work.

However, working for someone with a relentless fixation on perfectionism can bring frustration, burnout and impact self-confidence. Unreasonable expectations often create stress and lead to dissatisfaction for perfectionists – and those who work with them – making it tempting to avoid people with these tendencies.

But when perfectionism is under control, it can increase a team’s performance or help individuals achieve more success by working with the highest standards.

For instance, as a kid, I used to mow people’s yards for extra cash. Once, I took shortcuts and rushed my work to play ball with my friends. My dad saw my work and made me redo the entire lawn. The second time around, I made sure every section of the yard was flawless. That day, I learned that doing your best work and exceeding expectations is essential, even when you have something else you’d rather do or you don’t feel like putting in the extra effort. It’s a lesson I still carry with me today.

Self-awareness becomes essential for a person with perfectionistic tendencies. Once recognized, most perfectionists I know genuinely strive to control them. And when perfectionism is under control, an emphasis on excellence can have positive effects.

One small-business owner I know gathered his team and admitted his perfectionism was getting in the way of making timely improvements. He told them he would work on keeping his idealistic standards in moderation. His efforts paid off with a loyal team that produced consistent, outstanding results.

It’s an intelligent move to recognize and control perfectionistic tendencies. Here are eight benefits:

1. Strong attention to detail. Perfectionists are meticulous and will pay attention to every last detail. If you want someone to ensure that nothing is overlooked, or left to chance, give it to the person on the team with perfectionistic tendencies. 
2. Higher standards. Perfectionists set the bar high and expect the same level of performance from others. Their high standards can create healthy competition that can push the team to surpass expectations and strive for excellence. However, unreasonable standards are exhausting for everyone. Many years ago, we owned a radio station, and initially, I stressed my team significantly because I was obsessed with not making any programming mistakes. Until I curbed my perfectionistic expectations, I risked people quitting or giving up trying to reach excellence.  
3. Risk-averse mentality. With a perfectionist on your team, you can be confident they will significantly mitigate risks and prevent errors, ensuring your organization runs smoothly and optimally. 
4. Constant improvement. Perfectionists never settle for mediocrity. One CEO client used to read every email before it was sent from his leadership team, checking for grammar and other errors. As important as it may be to write professional emails, insisting on perfection went overboard, and his people complained because they didn’t feel like he trusted them. 
5. Strong work ethic. Perfectionists are hardworking individuals that take pride in their work. They are committed to their roles and will do whatever it takes to deliver quality results consistently. 
6. Innovative thinking. Perfectionists tend to think creatively and critically, constantly questioning the status quo. They often bring fresh perspectives and ideas to help the organization continuously improve and compete. 
7. Attention to customer needs. Perfectionists are naturally attuned to customers’ needs. They understand the critical importance of delivering excellent customer service experiences and will go out of their way to satisfy customers. 
8. High-quality results. Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies tend to insist on superior quality. They will complete every task and project to the best of their ability, likely producing exceptional outcomes.

By keeping the strengths of their excessive expectations in check, a perfectionist can help drive a culture of excellence that compels others to strive for success and growth. The bottom line, it takes patience and understanding to work with perfectionists, but the rewards can be worth the effort for everyone.

Consultant, professional speaker and author Mark Holmes is president of Springfield-based Consultant Board Inc. and SalesRevenueCoach.com. He can be reached at mark@salesrevenuecoach.com.