Create a Positive Impact
Have you ever noticed how a single conversation can set the tone for your entire day? It's not just the words that are said, it's the tone, energy, and consideration behind them that leaves an impression––positively or negatively.
All too often, we don’t pay much attention to how what we say impacts people. We’re simply communicating on autopilot, defaulting to behaviors that are familiar and comfortable to us. And while our needs are being met, we’re often unaware of how our messages are landing.
Autopilot works well if you’ve elevated it to become your healthiest style expression. When you communicate on this level, you bring out the best in yourself and everyone around you. Your interactions demonstrate that you are listening, thoughtful, and patient. Who doesn’t love that?
However, autopilot does not work so well if you’re feeling tired or time pressed. (And, let’s face it, that’s most of at some point during the day.) This is when you slip into your style under stress patterns––a heavy sigh, eye roll, sarcastic comment––and are likely to trigger, offend, and annoy people. And no one loves that!
Lucky for us, we can be far more intentional about how we engage (even under stress). We can think about the needs of others and communicate in ways that create a positive impact and leave them feeling good!
Simple practices to build better connections.
Here are a couple of flexing tips to help you communicate at your best with each of the four communication styles. Give them a test-drive today and create a positive impact on the people around you!
Connecting with an Expressive:
Make a Personal Connection: Creating a human connection is essential for an Expressive. They want to get to know you and hear how you’re doing. Take a few minutes at the outset to genuinely connect.
Show Enthusiasm: Mirror their energy. Express some excitement and pick up the pace to keep the conversation engaging. They enjoy lively discussions.
Communicating with a Reserved:
Give Them Some Personal Space: Reserved individuals value their privacy. Keep the conversation on a professional level and avoid asking a bunch of personal questions.
Show Your Appreciation: Reserved people like to have influence and know their input matters. Let them know much you appreciate their perspective––it goes a long way.
Talking with Direct Communicators:
Get to the Point: Direct communicators appreciate concise and straightforward discussions. Be clear and brief, avoiding lengthy explanations and small talk.
Respect Their Time: They value efficiency, so be punctual have an agenda, stay on task, and end on time. Bonus points for wrapping up early.
For Harmonious Communicators:
Be Respectful: Harmonious individuals are sensitive to others' feelings. Show some empathy and understanding, and be sure to keep judgment out of your tone.
Slow Your Roll: Give them some time and space to think, process, and respond. They like to be thoughtful about what they say and the input they share is well worth the wait.
It’s really so simple to improve the quality of our relationships. Make it a practice to weave these techniques into your interactions, and you’ll not only become a more effective communicator, but also cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections with the people in your life.
Happily,
Maryanne
