Although there are many different personalities, communication styles can be broken into four major profiles. If you take into consideration the needs of each style when communicating with others, you have the greatest chance of establishing rapport and trust. Ignore the styles and you risk rubbing people the wrong way, possibly shutting down the possibility of gaining the results you want.
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In addition, when you acknowledge your own dominant style, you can build on your strengths and set goals to adapt or ask for help in areas you avoid.
The styles are based on the most important needs when communicating, whether it be on achievement or on relationship, on idea creation or on action.
The two styles most focused on task:
DOERS
Doers like to be in control. They like quick action and they like to see results. They like to get to the point with little formalities. They don’t care for details and love finding shortcuts. Otherwise, they get bored easily. They like autonomy, freedom and taking risks.
They are self-starters, innovators, and love to expend physical energy. They like public recognition, especially for putting what they most value into action and for creating results that make a difference in the world (or at least in world they see and act in every day).
THINKERS
Thinkers love to gather information. They enjoy reading and presenting their findings in detail. However, they need to mentally rehearse before they present, and take time to evaluate and wind down after the show. They take their time making decisions, but stand by what they decide once they do.
They don’t care to talk about personal issues, but enjoy discussing hobbies and issues. They desire clear expectations, specific goals, deadlines and structure. They live by a sense of order, methodologies and personal responsibility.
Thinkers love to win, and will compete with themselves if no one is available. They will jump into the game with no coaxing if they perceive they have a fighting chance. They are proud of their good work. They like acknowledgment but won’t ask for it.
The two styles most focused on relationship:
INFLUENCERS
Influencers like to verbally process their thoughts so they welcome situations where they can “think out loud” with others. They like to interrupt others, especially when they are excited about the topic. They view this as conversation, not a disruption. They enjoy people, desire approval and tend to be friendly, creative, and persuasive. However, they may need some help staying on track and following through on tasks.
They desire social interaction, acknowledgment and chances to be creative and have fun. They often see the bright side and can be very amusing, dramatic and passionate about work. They help others get through difficult times and can build rapport and support.
They genuinely like people. However, they might find themselves caught up in a lot of drama since they are quick to want to help fix things and people. Teasing is one of their favorite pastimes.
CONNECTORS
Connectors count on others to set the tone and determine direction. They are consistent and reliable once given their responsibilities. They like to work with others instead of alone but take their time trusting and allowing new people to join their established groups. They do not readily give opinions, but this does not mean they don’t have any.
Because they are diligent and dependable, they often know the most about how work is getting done. They like to be asked what they know and they appreciate personal recognition (done privately, not in front of others). They desire consistency, social bonds, and acknowledgment for effort as well as results.
Although they may appear stubborn, they can be very flexible and adaptable if they understand why the changes are being made and how they will benefit themselves and others. They seek to reduce stress and promote harmony.
Find Out Your Style
Download the quiz (PDF format).