[bartread]

I don't know that your preferences are that much of an anomaly.

For example, I would say I get too much email so I really don't want more: likewise IMs or other forms of interruption. Like everyone else, I have things I actually need to get done, so constantly fielding incoming communication can become pretty frustrating.

What I do need are timely and relevant updates, not constant updates and over-communication. I prefer dealing with these updates in a structured fashion, whether I'm giving or receiving them - e.g., weekly 1:1s and other scheduled meetings - rather than ad hoc.

Thinking in more general terms, I prefer behaviour and action that is considered rather than reactive. This goes beyond personal preference though: I don't believe it's possible to effectively scale by being reactive or ad hoc in your actions and communications. I also don't believe that people who cannot (or will not) structure their behaviour are suitable for management or leadership in a growing organisation.

Sometimes events require a more reactive approach but I don't believe this should be the norm.

[dasil003]

Managers should definitely be structured, however the more senior you get the more random curveballs you get. Ultimately the single broadest trait that makes someone suited for senior leadership is judgement: When to be structured vs reactive, when to step in quickly vs when to let subordinates figure things out, what people’s strengths, weaknesses and preferences are, and ultimately how orchestrate all these things to maximize business success. Ultimately at the executive level these things are extremely contextual and rules of thumb won’t get you far if they’re not backed by relevant experience.