Management Insights

Communication Styles

Based on an extract from an MIT USA course on communications

Research indicates that each of us has a default communications style from one of the following:

-Analyst – data focus
-Innovator – creative focus
-Producer – results focus
-Diplomat – people focus

We may have some qualities from all four of the above but it is observed that we generally communicate using a pre-dominant or default style. There is nothing bad or good about these styles; it is just a question of different people using different styles. Some people are more “adaptable” as they have a strong relationship to each style; some are very predictable because they hardly ever traverse out of their style or are known to not have another style. So what do we do with this knowledge? Well, it can help us to understand and appreciate those around us rather than judging them…

The Analyst

The Analyst tends to be analytical, rational and technically oriented. They are usually realistic, turn out to be good problem solvers have an aptitude for numbers and spreadsheets. They want to know how things work, and ask a lot of “What” questions. On the negative side, they can be perceived as overly critical and nitpicking.

The Innovator

The Innovator is imaginative, has vision, has an artistic and creative touch and likes relying on intuition. They like to conceptualize and speculate. They come across as playful and even non-serious at times but once you recognize them, you realize they are innovators. They like asking lots of “Why” questions.  On the negative side, they can be perceived as being unrealistic or having “grand” plans.

The Producer

The Producer is organized, believes in planning, appreciates the importance of detail and likes punctuality and consistency. Producers are generally fond of neat processes, and good at preventative action. Their constant focus is on the results and the bottom line. Some top executives are producers but not all. They like asking lot’s of “How” questions. On the negative side, they can be perceived as being too rigid.

The Diplomat

The Diplomat believes in sharing, encourages team work, has empathy with others and is generally supportive. They are usually expressive, have good non verbal skills, and tend to be good teachers. They like asking lot’s of “Who” questions. On the negative side, they can be perceived as seeking cheap popularity or being too soft.

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