Each communication style reveals the level of assertiveness and expressiveness of the individual.
Level of assertiveness (i.e., communicating the message)+ level of expressiveness (i.e., feelings) = a particular communication style
INTERPRETING EACH DIMENSION
High assertive: tell others what to do
High expressive: show emotions
Low assertive: ask others what to do
Low expressive: don’t show emotion
I- DIRECT COMMUNICATION STYLE:
• Low expressiveness + high assertiveness
• Go-getters, expedient
• Go straight to the main point and dislike small chats
• Tend to not listen to others, may appear overbearing and impatient
Tips for communicating with someone with a direct communication style:
• Use short and direct sentence
• Don’t speak in the abstract
• Go to the point quickly and limit chatting
• Speak plainly, don’t sugar coat things
• Be specific about your request.
II – SPIRITED COMMUNICATION STYLE
• High expressiveness + high assertiveness
• Dreamers, inventors, innovators
• Interested in the big picture, not good with details
• Tend to be dramatic, love brainstorming and find it hard to stick to one subject
Tips for communicating with someone with a spirited communication style
• Understand that they may exaggerate
• Praise them in front of other people
• Learn to gently redirect the conversation back to the topic
• Use check lists or other written reminders to help communicate what needs to be done
III – SYSTEMATIC COMMUNICATION STYLE
• Low expressiveness + low assertiveness
• Love data, charts, graphs.
• Facts over opinions and possibilities
• Avoid emotional or confrontational situations
Tips for communicating with someone with a systematic communication style
• Focus on facts rather than opinions
• Speak with precision and accuracy
• Be logical, organized , on time
• Avoid personal topics unless they start
IV – CONSIDERATE COMMUNICATION STYLE
• High expressiveness + low assertiveness
• Natural trainers, counselors, and they enjoy helping others
• Concerned about the others’ feelings, want to be liked and connect on a personal level
• May be reluctant to go against the group
Tips for communicating with someone with a considerate communication style
• Reassure them that your opinions are not personal
• Express a sincere interest in their feelings and thoughts
• Encourage them to ask questions and share their opinions
• Resolve conflicts quickly
Sources: Training, M. T. D. (2012). Effective communication skills. Bookboon