How can you learn from a mentor with a different communication style?

1 Identify your styles

The first step is to identify your own communication style and your mentor's. There are many frameworks and tools to help you do this, such as the DISC model, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or the VAK model. These can help you understand your preferences, strengths, and weaknesses in communicating. For example, you might be more direct, analytical, visual, or emotional. Your mentor might be more indirect, intuitive, auditory, or logical. Knowing your styles can help you appreciate each other's perspectives and adapt your approach.

2 Set expectations

The second step is to set clear and realistic expectations with your mentor. This means discussing your goals, needs, and preferences for the mentorship. For example, you might want to agree on how often, how long, and how you will communicate. You might also want to establish some ground rules, such as how to give and receive feedback, how to handle disagreements, and how to respect each other's time and boundaries. Setting expectations can help you avoid frustration and disappointment and create a positive and productive relationship.

3 Learn from differences

The third step is to learn from your mentor's communication style and use it as an opportunity to grow. Instead of seeing differences as barriers, see them as strengths and sources of diversity. For example, if your mentor is more indirect than you, you might learn how to be more diplomatic, subtle, and respectful. If your mentor is more intuitive than you, you might learn how to be more creative, flexible, and visionary. If your mentor is more auditory than you, you might learn how to be more attentive, expressive, and persuasive. If your mentor is more logical than you, you might learn how to be more rational, structured, and objective.

4 Adapt your style

The fourth step is to adapt your communication style to your mentor's when appropriate. This does not mean changing who you are or pretending to be someone else. It means adjusting your tone, language, and delivery to suit your mentor's preferences and expectations. For example, if your mentor is more direct than you, you might want to be more concise, assertive, and clear. If your mentor is more analytical than you, you might want to use more data, facts, and evidence. If your mentor is more visual than you, you might want to use more images, diagrams, and examples. If your mentor is more emotional than you, you might want to use more stories, feelings, and values.

6 Appreciate your mentor

The sixth and final step is to appreciate your mentor and express your gratitude for their guidance, support, and time. This means acknowledging your mentor's contributions, achievements, and qualities. For example, you might thank your mentor for sharing their insights, experiences, and resources. You might also compliment your mentor on their communication style and skills and how they have helped you grow. Appreciating your mentor can help you build trust, rapport, and respect and strengthen your relationship.