FOUR MAIN COMMUNICATION STYLES

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