It would be simple if people, just like any gadget, would come with an instruction manual which could tell us how to approach them and how to interact with them. Sadly, or luckily, we know that this will never happen, which only adds more mystery to a person.
In regards to communication though, there is a solution we can approach: behavioral styles. Each person's character can be attributed to one of these styles, so it is really important for us to know what to expect and how to best communicate with that person.
How can we recognize this person?
The partner is balanced, stable, loves peacemaking, is loved by all, and is trustworthy and dependable. This person is preoccupied with the wellbeing of others around him, and that is why often he or she will complete tasks picked up and abandoned by others. On the other hand though, he doesn't like change.
How can we communicate with this person?
We need to clearly define our expectations and motivate our actions - why we need to do something, why we need something accomplished. Furthermore, an empathic attitude, which shows our interest towards what that person says and does, coupled with active listening, can really be of great help. It is also important to ask relevant questions and present every situation logically, with clear steps.
How can we recognize this person?
The encourager is characterized by enthusiasm, passion, spontaneity, good communication, persuasion, creativity, and a well-developed sense of humor. This person is sociable, a good presenter, a good motivator, and is capable of inspiring those around him or her.
How can we communicate with this person?
While interacting with such a person, it is important to maintain a positive attitude, keep smiling and have a good sense of humor. In order to capture his or her attention, we need to trigger an emotion in this person, by using such techniques as storytelling, but also remembering that this person likes to be in the center of attention at all times. That is why we can expect conversations to spin off into different directions, so we must remember to bring back the conversation to the initial topic. Another helpful thing is to ask miscellaneous questions meant to jog the conversation and get to know this person better, and also questions which ask for his or her opinion.
How do we recognize this person?
If one of our colleagues is precise, clear, logical, focused on facts, prudent, organized, fair, punctual, disciplined, conventional, sticks to the rules and likes high standards, then he or she belongs to the thinker style.
How do we communicate with this person?
Considering the fact that we are dealing with an analytical person, an effective way of communicating involves a lot of precise, logical, and proven data, specific processes and procedures (how we are going to implement what we are currently debating), and deadlines. We must realize that a thinker needs time in order to analyze and process all of the information, and that is why we must allow him or her this time. This person will ask a multitude of questions over the course of our interaction and will keep asking for more and more details. We will get along fine if we provide these details, as well as sufficient time for thought.
How do we recognize this person?
The clues that help spot a leader are: a strong personality, a focus on results and actions, dynamism, determination, a competitive character, mobility and involvement. If we can find these in a few of our colleagues or friends, it becomes clear what type we are dealing with.
How do we communicate with this person?
Results are the first and foremost thing that a leader is interested in. It is highly recommended to be short, to the point, and discuss from a win-win situation. We need to keep up with this person's quick rhythm, while all the while being professional and concise.
First of all, they help us realize how different we are from each other. Secondly, they help us realize that we have different reactions and needs when it comes to the way we communicate. But if we manage to identify the predominant typology of the person we are talking to, we will be able to quickly personalize the way we communicate in order to achieve maximum effect. Thus, we increase the chances of our interactions becoming more positive and more effective.
by Axente Paul
by Kovacs Zsolt
