What do you do if your colleagues have different communication styles in a business setting?

1 Identify your own communication style

Before you can adjust to others, you need to understand your own communication style. There are many frameworks and tools to help you assess your strengths and weaknesses, such as the DISC model, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or the Communication Style Inventory. These can help you identify your preferences for how you communicate information, how you process feedback, how you make decisions, and how you handle emotions. Knowing your own communication style can help you recognize how you might come across to others, and what areas you need to work on.

2 Learn about other communication styles

Once you have a clear picture of your own communication style, you can learn about the communication styles of your colleagues. You can do this by observing how they communicate, asking them directly, or using the same frameworks and tools that you used for yourself. The goal is not to label or judge them, but to understand their preferences and expectations. For example, some people might prefer direct and concise communication, while others might value details and context. Some people might prefer written communication, while others might prefer verbal or visual communication. Some people might be more expressive and emotional, while others might be more reserved and rational.

3 Adapt your communication style

After you have identified and learned about the communication styles of your colleagues, you can adapt your communication style to suit each situation and audience. This does not mean that you have to change your personality or compromise your values, but that you have to be flexible and respectful of the diversity of communication styles. For example, if you are communicating with someone who prefers direct and concise communication, you can avoid unnecessary details and get to the point quickly. If you are communicating with someone who values details and context, you can provide more information and explain the rationale behind your message. If you are communicating with someone who prefers written communication, you can use email or text messages. If you are communicating with someone who prefers verbal or visual communication, you can use phone calls or video conferencing.

4 Seek feedback and evaluation

One of the best ways to improve your communication skills and deal with different communication styles is to seek feedback and evaluation from your colleagues. You can ask them how they perceive your communication style, what they appreciate and what they would like you to change. You can also give them constructive feedback on their communication style, and suggest ways to improve the communication process. Feedback and evaluation can help you build trust and rapport with your colleagues, and identify and resolve any communication issues or conflicts.

5 Use communication tools and techniques

Another way to deal with different communication styles is to use communication tools and techniques that can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your messages. For example, you can use active listening skills, such as paraphrasing, summarizing, and asking open-ended questions, to show that you understand and respect the other person's point of view. You can use assertive communication skills, such as using "I" statements, expressing your needs and feelings, and respecting the needs and feelings of others, to communicate your message without being aggressive or passive. You can use nonverbal communication skills, such as eye contact, body language, and tone of voice, to reinforce your verbal message and convey your emotions.

6 Appreciate the benefits of diversity

Finally, you can deal with different communication styles by appreciating the benefits of diversity in your business setting. Having colleagues with different communication styles can enrich your perspective, challenge your assumptions, and stimulate your creativity. It can also help you reach a wider audience, cater to different needs and preferences, and foster a culture of inclusion and collaboration. By embracing and celebrating the diversity of communication styles, you can turn potential challenges into opportunities for learning and growth.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?