Every individual has their own enduring communication pattern and no two communication styles are identical.
Sometimes managers make the mistake of assuming every employee thinks and acts the same. Assuming all staff react and handle situations in the same way does not make for a comfortable working environment. It creates stress and tension.
It is very common to assume that the way we like to be talked to applies to every other person. This is not necessarily true as people react differently to different methods of communication. One person may be happy with a certain tone of voice, while a second person may feel insulted.
Outgoing people may respond to louder instructions, while a shy, introverted person will give you a negative response.
There is no right and wrong way of communicating. The best way to achieve any positive results is to find the way for every individual to communicate in their own comfortable way.
How companies can benefit from Communication Style Assessment?
Companies and particularly managers, will benefit from Communication Style Assessment. Once you have determined the best way to communicate with your employees, you will find that the workplace becomes a more relaxed place, with less tension and stress. Employees who are comfortable will perform more willingly.
It is a proven fact that companies who provide non-threatening workplaces, where each employee is respected, will be more profitable.
Team leaders, managers, HR departments, and anyone who handles training will benefit from understanding a Communication Assessment Style. It is an invaluable tool in building better relationships, not only with staff, but also with clients.
How does Communication Style Assessment work?
For better communication, a message must be sent from one party and received by the second party. The person sending the message needs to know that it will be received in a positive manner and that the outcome will be mutually satisfactory.
Communication Style Assessment programmes normally take the place of a form which is completed by both parties. The form will show the preferences that both people feel acceptable.
While there are several different programmes, we would advise anyone in a training capacity to opt for the HRDQ Communication Style Assessment programme.
There are four accepted styles of communication:
- Direct style: people who fall into this category are normally known to be highly assertive, with decisive tones, and much stress placed on the bottom line of any issue.
- Spirited style: normally these are very animated individuals. They are often very persuasive and highly assertive.
- Systematic style: this sector will be recognised by their precise style of speaking, emphasizing the facts at all times. They are not highly assertive and are often low in expressiveness.
- Considerate style: These are the listeners. They are low in assertiveness and use a lot of supportive language.
So, what are the real benefits?
Once a Communication Style Assessment has been set in place and followed, there are only positive benefits. People will feel more valued if they are treated as individuals. It will also make it easier to get messages across to employees and better for them to respond, knowing they will be treated in a positive manner.
Knowing that people respond differently and communicate in their own ways will go a long way to furthering a better, more productive workplace.
Positive leadership depends on having the tools to communicate successfully, both with colleagues, employees, and clients.
