Communicating for Different Personality Styles
By: A Staff Writer
Updated on: Sep 02, 2024
Communicating for Different Personality Styles
The approach that works with a bubbly extrovert will fall flat with a data-driven introvert. Adapting your style gets better results.
We communicate the way WE prefer, then get frustrated when others don’t respond how we expect.
- Big picture vs. details: Start with the high-level takeaway, or the nitty-gritty steps, depending on their preference.
- Emotional vs. logical: Focus on the impact on people, or the hard numbers, to make your point more persuasive.
- Fast-paced vs. thoughtful: Some need quick decisions, others need processing time. Rushing them backfires on both sides.
- Formal vs. casual: Matching their tone a bit (without being inauthentic) builds rapport faster.
- It’s not about YOU: Your preferred style isn’t “right”, it’s about meeting THEM where they’re at to communicate effectively.
- Observe and ask: Pay attention to how they communicate, and directly ask what their preference is if unsure!
Who in your life consistently misunderstands you? Could a shift in your communication style help?
Think of an upcoming interaction. What’s the ONE THING you know about the other person to tailor your communication?