Communication Styles

For the past few years, psychologists have been trying to understand the communication styles that are adopted by different people round the globe and have come to a conclusion that the style of communication of every individual depends on two factors- openness and directness. To choose the best style of communication to express yourself and comprehend others, one should have an understanding about self. So, let's move ahead to learn the various styles of communication to effectively use the four types of communication; verbal, non-verbal, written and oral, that we have learned till now.

Understanding Your Style of Communication

To acquire excellent command over your communication skills, you must first understand the personal communication style. This requires self analysis and awareness which also includes how other perceive and understand you. This would help you to employ the effective communication skills in workplace as well as in personal life. Here are four types of personality elements that influence communication. An understanding of these traits would help to assess yourself and choose the most suitable style for self.

Aggressive
These kinds of people think themselves to be superior and try to control others by thrusting their decisions on them. They work to achieve the goal at the cost of others and with a soul intention to win anyhow. In this type of personality, an individual tends to boost himself whereas derogates others and because of this, people around him feel hurt and humiliated.

Passive
These kinds of people, unlike aggressive, allow others to express themselves and contribute equally in decision-making. They drive in a safe mode that is, try to avoid confrontations and are self-denying. They feel helpless and ignored because of lack of attention for them. They themselves are responsible for this by allowing other to meet the targets at their own expense.

Passive-Aggressive
They acquire some of the traits of both passive and aggressive personality types. They have a very manipulative nature. They pretend to be honest, but are not trust worthy. They even manipulate the situations to win without giving you a feel of it. They believe that one must fight to earn respect and to be heard.

Assertive
These kinds of people are very sensitive and care for others. They believe in making their own decisions and dealing the situations through win-win approach, rather than win-lose. They and honest and direct in approach. They give due respect to others and thus, others too reciprocate with same love, affection, respect and trust. Their underlying principles are protection of self-respect and rights and respecting other, but this does not mean accepting the wrong behavior of others.

Various Styles of Communicating

We all know the importance of effective communication in the workplace as well as in personal life. The lack of communication can cause many misunderstandings and lead to confusions. To survive and excel in this world and to have good interpersonal communication, it is a must to adopt the most effective communication style in the workplace and in relationships as well.

Controller or Directors
Controllers are task-oriented and focus on the end result of the situation as they are very ambitious. They always look at the things from bigger perspective. They speak less and act more and are always ready to face the risks and dangers. To communicate to such people, do not beat about the bush, directly come to the point and prove how your ideas are goal-orients. If you are at the position of a controller, remember that due respect and attention should be given to followers apart from focusing on the target.

Collaborator or Relaters
Collaborators give importance to the interpersonal relationships and consider the opinion of others as they are very cooperative as team leaders and wonderful team players. They always take the consent of the co-workers before moving ahead. But, sometimes, their friendly nature hinders the progress of work. Relaters do not get along the change very easily, rather take some time to adjust. While communicating with the collaborators, make them feel that you are interested in them and can comfortably share your personal experiences.

Analyzers or Thinkers
Analyzers main focus is on the technical details of the task. They analyze the situation logically and not rationally. They prefer to work alone on a problem and so, take time to generate solution. Like collaborators, thinkers too take time to accept the change. To avoid indulging in conflicts. While dealing with a thinker you must present each minute detail and take time to explain the things. To assist thinkers to adjust with the change, try to convince them with logical supports and arguments.

Socializer or Open
They love meeting new people and enjoy the change and challenges. Their performance excels when working in a team. They are always a source of motivation for others because of the zeal and enthusiasm they show towards their task. They love indulging in the healthy discussions and brainstorming. The focus should be on the new trends and concepts when communicating with the socializers.

The understanding of these styles of communication would guide you to adopt the most effective style in any sphere of life.