The Impact of Styles of Communication

How often have you been frustrated trying to get your message across or struggled to engage with someone in a meaningful conversation?

Typically four communication styles predominate often described as thinkers, feelers, planners and knowers – importantly no one style is better than the other.

Thinkers use data and rational argument, they process information. Thinkers like to take their time, get facts and know their options before making a decision.

Feelers use stories, anecdotes, colour and lots of interaction. Feelers build relationships and enjoy reaching decisions in consultation with others. They prefer to be presented with a visual argument, pictures and graphs.

Planners prefer detail and logic, adopt an organised, step by step approach.Knowers use intuition and instinct, they prefer short, efficient communication.

Knowers will tend to make decisions quickly without necessarily getting into too much detail or looking at the data.

Having the ability to recognise and understand your own style and the preferred style of others is extremely beneficial. It allows you to adapt and connect more effectively through verbal and written communication.

Communication style impacts how effectively teams operate, particularly where individuals have a strong preference. For example, a strong knower may find a strong thinker frustrating while the thinker finds the knower impetuous.

Successful teams have a balance of styles – knowing their profile will avoid pointless arguments and ensure positive progress is achieved.

This doesn’t mean you have to change everything you do or that what you do now is wrong but an awareness will help. So if you have a particular individual with whom you don’t quite connect, get to know their preferred style and adapt how you communicate accordingly.