A few months ago, I was introduced to the idea that people fall into four basic types. Some identify the types as colors, others as numbers, others as shapes. The theory is that communication becomes much easier when you know your type, as well as the type of the person with whom you wish to interact. By tailoring your communication style to their type, you'll be better understood, and have a better chance of expressing your needs in a way that the other person will understand and honor.
1. Extroverted and Idea-Based
People who fit this type are forever coming up with new ideas, and they love to tell everyone about them. They love to socialize, and having fun is their goal. They're often the first to come up with ideas. Yet, they may speak or act without first considering the consequences of their actions.
As family and friends, they're the ones who urge you to try something new. They're the life of the party. Some may see them as scatterbrained, yet ideas their gift. In a work environment, idea-based people shine when facing a challenge that requires a new perspective. Brainstorming is their forte.
2. Introverted and Thought-Based
Methodical and research-focused, people who fit this type are both thinkers and researchers. Before making a decision, they need to be satisfied that they have complete and thorough information about all the alternatives. Before making a suggestion or offering an idea, they have done their own research. They are very concerned with others' needs, and empathize easily. They may not speak up when upset. They recharge their own batteries best when alone. Sometimes considered slow-moving or reserved, their gift is empathy and attention to detail. In a work environment, thought-based people may prefer to do the background work. They may not speak up much at meetings, yet may take copious notes. Often, they are the ones concerned with the impact of proposed actions on others.
3. Extroverted and Results-Based
These are the people who want to get things done. They may be the first to volunteer for a task. They recharge their batteries through interaction with others. At a party, they may head straight for the person or group who most interests them, and immediately state their view in a conversation. They may interrupt to be sure they are heard. Sometimes, results-based people are thought of as pushy. Their gift is their ability to achieve an end. In a work environment, once they have committed to a project, they will get it done.
4. Introverted and Perfection-Based
With perfection as a goal, these people act as their own authority. Their vision is often black and white, as they perceive a right way and a wrong way to do a task. They're the ones who believe there is only one correct way to load a dishwasher! Sometimes thought of as controlling, their gift is perfecting. In a work environment, they make great editors and proofreaders.
Effective Communication with Each Type
So, how do you best communicate with each of these types? First, determine your own type. Are you an introvert? Remember to put your own needs and boundaries first. An extrovert? Remember that other people may need alone time.
Are you idea based? Honour others for their ability to put ideas into action. Thought based? Honour others for their spontaneity. Results-based? Honor others for their ability to reflect. Perfection-based? Honor others for their ability to let go.
Use your type's gift to draw out the best of others. To communicate with idea-based extroverts, look for ways that make your interaction more fun and people-focused. Ask them for ideas, and let go of expectations that ideas must lead to action.
With thought-based introverts, give them the space and time they need to make decisions. Ask them what they need to know in order to decide. Let go of expectations for quick action.
When extroverted, results-based people are involved, consider how their goals can be merged with your desired result. Ask them Let go of expectations around the process.
Honour perfection-based people's needs by providing clear agreements and boundaries, then leaving them to create their own methods. Let go of expectations around collaboration.
Question: what is one situation in which you are willing to put this knowledge to use?
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