Communication Style Check
EVER felt being grossly misunderstood? That the message received was exactly the opposite of what you set out to communicate! There are even times when our communication seems to get out of our control due to factors like novelty of the situation and lack of understanding of dynamics like other person's personality and life situations. Communication is a loaded process because it involves more than just words or thoughts conveyed. Where talking in terms of the `source-channel-receiver-feedback' process makes it look very simple, there one can't discount the more dynamic aspect of communication - the receiver's thoughts, beliefs and interpretations. Moreover, through the socialisation process, we develop our own unique style of communication. A lot of research has gone into the various communication styles; the gist of all being that the very presence of a variety of styles means friction is inevitable. Furthering your information on the styles will however help you loosen up your own while being tolerant of others' style of communication.
The styles in communicating official messages
Factual style: The presenter of facts will give undue importance to figures and will neglect sentiments and emotions. As a manager if you are the factual type, you will strive relentlessly towards bettering the performance through figures but sooner or later will run into a roadblock. You need to consciously merge a caring style with factual style. Instead of driving your team to exhaustion, learn of their realities. A good, happy and trusting team is as important as the numbers.
Interpreter style: The interpreter will always translate the numbers into a picture for the employees to understand. An interpreter will typically be more sensitive to the needs of his employees. This style displays a logical flow of thought processes. The interpreter usually uses emotions to increase the effectiveness of the communication. It leads to a sense of reassurance in the employee.
Symbolic style: Symbols are heralded as a `communication shortcut' that an employee comprehends immediately. The person with this style almost invariably turns the message to be communicated into some sort of a graph or chart. An inspiring logo is an example of this style of communication.
The styles found in interpersonal interactions
Aggressive style: `Everyone should be like me'; this is the motto of an individual with an aggressive style. Since the motto is basically implausible, communication troubles are almost inevitable. In addition to a closed mind, this person is a poor listener, interrupts others and drips sarcasm. These traits could be present in varying quantities. This person displays the non-verbal cues to match like frequent pointing, frowns, glares, squints and a rigid posture. In addition to subjecting others to verbal abuse, this person operates from a win-lose position, which is invariably harmful for both the organisation and the individual.
Passive style: "Don't express your true feelings", is the motto of a person with a passive style of interpersonal communication. A self- proclaimed martyr, this person seldom disagrees, is plagued by hesitancy, is always apologetic and has no faith in his or her own abilities or work. This person sighs a lot, complains incessantly and has difficulty making choices and implementing plans. Non- verbal traits include fidgeting, downcast eyes, nodding in agreement even if feeling otherwise and a slumped posture. This person will frequently avoid, ignore, leave or postpone work. This person ends up in dependency relationships that further hinder growth of self-reliance.
Assertive style: "I have rights and so do others", is the motto of a person who adopts an assertive style. This person is not purely driven by self- interest and winning. He believes in fair play and is fully cognizant of his abilities. An active listener, he states observations and is not afraid of speaking his mind. He is non- judgmental, expresses trust in others and cultivates a sense of humour. Action oriented, firm and realistic in drawing out plans, this person experiences a feeling of well being that is permanent through ups and downs. Non- verbal cues include a direct eye contact, attentive facial expression, natural and open gestures and a relaxed posture. Motivation and self- esteem are invariably on his side.
Fine-tuning one's communication style to fit the situation is an art that comes with time. There are even times when an aggressive or a passive style comes in handy. Using and developing a style that is effective can give a decisive positive turn to your career and personal life.
DEEPSHIKHA MEHTA
faqs@cnkonline.com
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Opportunities
