Communication is what sets humankind apart from all other species on the planet. Interestingly, good communication can distinguish professionals from average performers. In this particular area of communication, style should be prioritized.
My communication style could be described as assertive. I want my ideas to be heard, but I also value listening to others’ ideas. This style is effective when interacting with people in school, especially during activities that require strong communication skills such as class discussions.
Of course, every communication style has its weaknesses. One weakness of this particular style is that it can sometimes lead to frustration or even depression. However, the assertive style also has many positive aspects. For example, it can convert a win-lose situation into a win-win situation. As mentioned earlier, the assertive style allows me to push through my ideas and share my thoughts in class without intimidating others. Additionally, this communication style helps me navigate difficult situations with ease. The assertive attitude works like magic when I need to speak up even if I’m not fully prepared.
If I were in an interview with an emotive host and a supportive station manager, I would display an assertive style of communication. I would assert myself while also being sensitive to the flow of the conversation. To connect with the emotive host, I would try to steer the conversation towards shared understanding. It’s important to choose my words carefully as emotive people can be easily hurt by them. Additionally, it’s crucial that I appear as an attentive listener to him since he may want others to listen while he speaks.
If I am dealing with a reflective colleague, I need to be more sensitive in my communication. Reflective individuals tend to be more sensitive to words, so I must choose my words carefully. To resolve any conflicts with a reflective colleague, I need to use powerful language that will resonate and stick in their mind.
All in all, it is important to be aware of one’s communication style and that of others. Additionally, being sensitive to other people’s communication styles can save a lot of time that might otherwise be wasted resolving or fighting through disagreements. Communication style can be a very effective tool, but it can also be one’s worst enemy.
There may be many versions of communication styles. However, no matter how varied these styles are, it is important for people to understand them in order to utilize their full potential.
Reference
Effective Human Relations, 10th edition by Reece and Brandt is a book published by Houghton Mifflin in Boston.
Company, 2008.