Communication is a minefield at the best of times, but add in extra stress of the workplace and the pressure can really intensify.
From expressing our needs, to handling conflict, to interpreting information, we all like to do things differently.
Now, the corporate world has placed us in four categories based on the way we like to communicate.
Which begs the question, which one are you?
The analytical one
Do you want to skip the small chat and head straight for the facts?
Prefer exact timelines and data to open-ended questions?
If so, you’re logical, objective and thorough.
Your goal is always to be accurate, and highly-accurate at that.
The issues that arise here are that this style of communication can often feel cold or detached.
The intuitive one
Do you love to think about the big picture and broad concepts?
Are you keen to avoid the details and instead highlight the main impact?
This is the intuitive communicator.
You are strategic, creative, fast-moving, and innovative.
The weaknesses here are the likelihood of missing key details or, being so keen to lead with the conclusion, jumping ahead before the information is ready.
The functional one
Do you appreciate process, timelines and step-by-step plans?
If you love a deadline and are highly-organised, you are the functional communicator.
You are a detail-oriented, reliable person who appreciates clarity and clear structure.
It’s important those who fit the bill are mindful of losing the bigger picture and the potential frustration it can cause for those with faster communication styles.
The personal one
Do you value personal connection and relationships?
Is team harmony and how people feel about a project a top priority for you?
A personal communicator values human impact.
They are empathetic, supportive, strong listeners who make excellent diplomats.
The issues with this style are they may avoid healthy conflict and, for the analytical types, it’s likely they will be viewed as overly emotional.
Photos in The four types of communicators: Which one are you? by Pink Elephant Communications.
The four types of communicators: Which one are you? was written by Maxine Montgomery and edited by Andrew McFarlan.
