Adapting Your Communication Style

Have you ever noticed that your message seems to get through more easily to certain people, or in certain situations?

To be a truly effective communicator, it's important to understand different communication styles and adapt yours accordingly. That way, you can better get your messages across and create stronger working relationships.

So how do you do this?

A good start is to think about the people you've encountered before, and their styles of communication. This will help you to choose how best to communicate with them.

Remember though: don't be tempted to copy the other person completely – assess each situation in turn, and adapt your approach accordingly.

Let's look at four types of communication style:

This eagle is direct and decisive, with a dominant communication style. She's self-confident, results-oriented, and likes to take control of situations.

If you're communicating with someone like this, forget the small talk! Be brief, organized and get straight to the business at hand.

The talkative, outgoing parrot is a people person, who loves to interact and has lots of enthusiasm.

When you're communicating with someone like this, be friendly and sociable, and perhaps add in some humor to the interaction. Give them plenty of opportunities to verbalize their thoughts, and offer your feedback straight away.

Calm, patient and controlled – the dove has a quiet, steady approach to communication. She's a supportive team player, and a good listener who prizes reliability.

When communicating with someone like this, try not to be aggressive or pushy. Patiently explain, step-by-step, how you will get things done – and do what you say you will, when you say you will.

Conscientious and logical – the owl has a careful, cautious communication style. He's an analytical thinker, who likes to focus on the detail and take his time before responding.

When communicating with someone like this, it's important to be well-organized, accurate and patient.

Although these four styles are a simplification of complex human behavior, most people display one or two of them.

To identify the communication style of the people you're interacting with, ask questions, observe and use active listening. Then, adapt your own style accordingly.

This can be challenging at first. But, with practice, you'll soon be flying.