{"id":287597,"date":"2023-11-23T11:12:26","date_gmt":"2023-11-23T11:12:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/project.co\/?p=287597"},"modified":"2024-12-06T13:35:43","modified_gmt":"2024-12-06T13:35:43","slug":"communication-styles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/project.co\/communication-styles\/","title":{"rendered":"There are 5 Communication Styles – Which One Best Describes You?"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/div>\n

Communication isn’t always easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We all have different communication styles, which can make it challenging to connect with others effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are you a straight shooter who values clarity and efficiency? <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Or are you more of an empathetic communicator who prioritises relationships and emotions?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whatever your communication style, we’ve got you covered. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, we’ll explore the five different communication styles with practical techniques that can help you enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The importance of effective communication<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Effective communication reduces team friction, improves productivity and saves huge amounts of time. It enhances company culture and builds better working relationships. Put simply, the impact of effective communication can be felt throughout every key deliverable in a company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Becoming a better communicator can improve virtually every aspect of your life: career, family, relationships, and friendships. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n <\/i>Statistic\n<\/div>\n
\n Strong social connections lead to a 50% increased chance of longevity.<\/strong> People who feel more connected to others actually have lower rates of anxiety and depression, plus higher rates of self-esteem, stronger immune systems, and more empathy. \n
\n Source: <\/strong>Psychology Today<\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Gaining a deeper understanding of your own communication style and those around you can give you the tools you need to develop more meaningful connections. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s take a closer look at the five communication styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The 5 communication styles<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Everyone has their own unique communication style. But most people will fall into one of the five most common types. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having a better understanding of your own communication style gives you a strong foundation to work with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It will also explain why you behave in certain ways and why some people are easier to communicate with than others. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s important to note that your communication style isn\u2019t fixed, you\u2019ll probably find synergies across several styles. You may also notice that you adapt your communication style to the situation or person you\u2019re talking to. This is perfectly natural and actually really quite useful. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sticking rigidly to one style of communication isn\u2019t always helpful, especially if that communication style doesn\u2019t work well with the person you\u2019re communicating with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Assertive<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Assertiveness can sometimes be confused with aggression, but this is way off the mark. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whereas an aggressive communication style (more on this later<\/em>) can be overbearing, an assertive communication style embraces a two-way dialogue. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hallmark of an assertive communicator is the ability to express their needs and ideas clearly, whilst actively listening to the thoughts and feelings of those around them to find a compromise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Assertive communicators are both self-confident and self-aware. They know their mind, as well as their needs, which they\u2019ll share in a straightforward, no-nonsense style. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Someone who naturally favours an assertive communication style takes ownership of their thoughts and actions, using \u2018I\u2019 statements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, \u2018I feel as though this project could have been delivered more effectively<\/em>\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

An assertive communication style is often touted as the most effective, especially in a business environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to be a more assertive communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Speak with confidence.<\/strong> If you\u2019re confident in your opinions, ideas, and suggestions, your colleagues and clients will be too. If this doesn\u2019t come naturally to you, be kind to yourself and practise, practise, practise!

Look for the compromise<\/strong>. Try to be considerate to the needs of those you talk to and actively listen to what they say. You\u2019ll need to exercise a degree of empathy and sensitivity to find workable solutions for everyone.

Don\u2019t mince your words. <\/strong>Assertive communicators rarely use non-committal verbs like \u2018should\u2019 or \u2018could\u2019. They use \u2018will\u2019 instead. \u2018I will deliver this project\u2019 is far more affirmative than \u2018I could deliver this project\u2019.\u00a0\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to work with an assertive communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Canvas their opinion<\/strong>. Someone with an assertive communication style will always tell you what they think, so be sure to ask them. Just don\u2019t be dismissive if they\u2019re critical, they might not be so forthcoming next time.

Bring solutions to the table. <\/strong>Remember that an assertive communicator thrives on interactive discussions. So bring solutions and opinions to the table to ensure you can reach a meaningful conclusion for all involved.

Let them say their bit. <\/strong>As we\u2019ve established, assertive communicators know what they want and need. So give them space to convey their opinions and suggestions, then take their recommendations on board.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

2. Aggressive<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

People with an aggressive communication style can come across as intimidating, hostile and critical. An aggressive communicator wants to \u2018win\u2019 every conversation they take part in, regardless of what others think or feel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They often speak in a loud voice and are unlikely to be sympathetic listeners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aggressive communicators are also more likely to dish out orders (many become leaders) and phrase questions bluntly. This domineering, one-way style of communication can lead to viewpoints being overlooked because the method of delivery aggravates listeners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The aggressive communication style is not particularly endearing and is best avoided in business. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n <\/i>Recommended Article\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
The 8 Types of Leadership Styles Explained – With Examples<\/a><\/div>\n
There are many different ways to successfully lead a team. Here are 8 types of leadership styles – discover which one is right for you and your business.<\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to adjust your aggressive communication style<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Be mindful of your body language<\/strong>. It\u2019s common for aggressive communicators to use tone of voice, gestures and eye contact to make a point. Dial back your body language and your words will be better received.

Use your confidence wisely.<\/strong> Rather than using your self-assurance to steamroller others, actively listen to what they tell you. When a person feels heard they\u2019re more likely to hear what you have to say.

Reframe your mindset.<\/strong> The point of a conversation isn\u2019t to \u2018win\u2019 at all costs. It\u2019s to have a two-way dialogue that reaches a mutually beneficial solution. When you think along these lines, you\u2019ll see results.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to work with an aggressive communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Be empathetic and supportive. <\/strong>Listen to what an aggressive communicator has to say and reflect their emotional response back to them to ensure they feel heard and supported.

Keep them on-topic.<\/strong> Ensure meetings and conversations are business-like and to the point. Keeping things matter of fact will ensure an aggressive communicator can\u2019t veer into unpleasant areas of discussion.\u00a0\u00a0

Accept who they are. <\/strong>It\u2019s not easy working with someone who has an aggressive communication style. Try to accept them as they are and work with them rather than against them.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

3. Passive<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Passive communicators are also known as \u2018people-pleasers\u2019 or \u2018submissive\u2019 communicators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In practice, people who exhibit this communication style<\/a> often struggle to articulate their thoughts and feelings. They\u2019ll go to great lengths to avoid confrontation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A passive communicator\u2019s inability to express themself can often lead to anger, resentment and misunderstandings \u2013 both for them and their colleagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Often, passive communicators will defer to more assertive or aggressive counterparts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their ideas can go unheard and they may take on more work than they can handle due to their inability to say \u2018no\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But the passive communication style isn\u2019t all bad. <\/strong>A passive communicator\u2019s go-with-the-flow attitude can make for a harmonious team environment, providing a positive buffer for aggressive team members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This communication style isn\u2019t ideal for the individual or their team but will take time and patience to adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to adjust your passive communication style<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Embrace the power of \u2018no\u2019.<\/strong> Being a people-pleaser can lead you to overwhelm yourself with work. This can quickly lead to stress in the long run. Learning to say no more often can help create healthier boundaries.

Come up with a game plan.<\/strong> Consider speaking with your manager to find opportunities to practice your assertiveness. Practice exerting your opinions and contributing to discussions to boost your confidence.

Lean in to your diplomacy skills.<\/strong> Passive communicators are diplomats. The trick is not to compromise your own wishes and voice solutions that everyone in your team can benefit from \u2013\u00a0including you!\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to work with a passive communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Ask them direct questions.<\/strong> A passive communicator needs time and space to express themselves clearly and confidently. Asking them direct questions will give them the impetus they need to speak up.

Respect and value their ideas.<\/strong> Knowing how much effort it takes for a passive communicator to share ideas, it\u2019s really important to respect their input. Consider their suggestions rather than dismissing them out of hand.

Don\u2019t be confrontational. <\/strong>As we\u2019ve learned, passive communicators shy away from confrontation. Try to keep your conversations solutions-focused because any hint of aggression or anger could lead them to shut down.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

4. Passive-aggressive<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As the name suggests, the passive-aggressive communication style combines elements of the passive and aggressive communication styles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The result is a toxic blend of someone who appears easy-going on the outside but is operating from a place of anger beneath the surface. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A passive-aggressive communicator is unlikely to voice their discontent directly, but rather express it in subtler, more underhand ways.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Like passive communicators, passive-aggressive communicators tend to avoid confrontational situations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead, they may act out in a variety of ways. For instance, they might be sarcastic, patronising, obstructive or vindictive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The inward frustrations of a passive-aggressive communicator can cause wider malaise within a team. <\/p>\n\n\n

\n <\/i>Recommended Article\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
4 ACTIONABLE communication strategies for happier teams<\/a><\/div>\n
When teams communicate effectively, they’re happier. And they tend to be more productive as a result! Try these communication strategies in your organisation.<\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

This type of communication style is never appropriate in a business setting and requires support to overcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to adjust your passive-aggressive communication style<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Locate the root of your anger.<\/strong> Do you often feel unheard? Do you feel like your efforts go unheralded? Whatever your frustrations, try to identify them and address them with your manager.

Identify your objectives. <\/strong>Rather than treating conversations as a battle and participants as your enemies, try to bring solutions to the table. A more proactive communication style will be better received.

Control the controllables.<\/strong> They say life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. If you can react to daily situations with a positive attitude, your relationships will improve.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to work with a passive-aggressive communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Don\u2019t fight fire with fire. <\/strong>Resist the urge to respond with passive-aggressive behaviour yourself. Demonstrate the effectiveness of assertive communication by listening to their needs and finding a compromise.

Walk in their shoes.<\/strong> There\u2019s often a reason why people behave in certain ways. Let\u2019s say a colleague becomes passive-aggressive when there\u2019s a deadline approaching. Be mindful of that and help them if possible.

Lead by example.<\/strong> A great way to diffuse situations with a passive-aggressive communicator is to reframe the conversation. Try rephrasing the message in a more assertive tone to illustrate a better approach.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

5. Manipulative<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The manipulative communication style is all about exerting influence in a controlling but deceitful manner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Manipulative communicators rarely express their needs and desires upfront. Instead, they\u2019ll try to exert their will using layers of manipulation; often completely unbeknownst to the person they\u2019re talking to. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Manipulative communicators know what they want, the problem is they revert to deceitful tactics to achieve it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Perhaps understandably, manipulative communicators can be unpopular with their colleagues. After all, although this communication style can be advantageous when dealing with disgruntled customers, if a fellow team member realises they\u2019ve been manipulated they\u2019re unlikely to trust or cooperate with this person again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A manipulative communicator should be encouraged to transition to a more assertive style to improve their relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to adjust your manipulative communication style<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Be more direct.<\/strong> Practice expressing your wants and needs more directly. If you can be open and upfront, you\u2019re likely to get a better response. Just be prepared to accept that you won\u2019t always get your own way.

Leave emotions out of it<\/strong>. As you try to employ a more assertive communication style, don\u2019t be tempted to slip back into using emotional language. Keep things factual and direct to find the best compromise.

Don\u2019t expect change overnight.<\/strong> If your colleagues have been burnt by your manipulation in the past, they may not be immediately receptive to your efforts to change. Build their trust by remaining consistent at all times.\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

How to work with a manipulative communicator<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n <\/i>Expert Tip\n<\/div>\n
\n Keep calm and carry on.<\/strong> It\u2019s essential to show a manipulative communicator that you can\u2019t be manipulated. Stay calm, patient and resolute to encourage them to use a more effective communication style.

Stick to the topic. <\/strong>It\u2019s important to steer a manipulative communicator towards a more assertive communication style. Stay on topic and don\u2019t allow them to subvert a conversation for their own agenda.

Flip the script.<\/strong> Rather than criticising a manipulative communicator, try reframing the conversation. Clarify their needs and reiterate them clearly to show how they can better express themselves.\u00a0\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n

Final thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you spend your life trying to avoid conflict, win conversations, or manipulate colleagues and customers, it won\u2019t come as a surprise to hear that these methods often fall on deaf ears. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But we\u2019ve got good news for you: people rarely fall neatly into one of these communication styles. We\u2019re normally a combination, which means we\u2019re adaptable and can change our styles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now you know a bit more about the main communication styles you can make a conscious effort to be more assertive. Taking small but meaningful steps to adapt your approach can promote better relationships \u2013 both in the workplace and your personal life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effective communication often makes for strong leadership. If you enjoyed this article, why not find out more about common leadership styles<\/a> to find out which category you fall into?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Gaining a deeper understanding of your own communication style and those around you can give you the tools you need to develop more meaningful connections.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":287615,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-287597","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-productivity"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/The-5-Communication-Styles-Explained-_-How-to-Improve-Yours.png","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pgGBe0-1cOF","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/287597","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=287597"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/287597\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/287615"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=287597"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=287597"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/project.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=287597"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}