2. Communication in the workplace is vital to an
organization’s ability to operate smoothly and
productively.
Vertical and lateral communication leads to
improved overall company performance.
3. Upward communication, which is the flow of
information to higher levels within an
organization and typically involves feedback,
empowers employees, and increases job
satisfaction.
Downward communication, meaning
information passed down from superiors or
managers, also increases worker happiness.
4. Overall, the flow of communication in the
workplace is very important to workers and
therefore to the overall success of an
organization.
Employees want to be sure that they are
receiving thorough and truthful information
from superiors, and that they are able to share
their own ideas, thoughts and concerns.
5. Communication Styles in the
Workplace
People are hard-wired with different
communication styles, which is important to
note because successful communication
requires that someone who is receiving
information from another person gets the
message and correctly interprets it.
6. Four Main Communication Styles
1. Interpersonal (Relator)
2. Affective (Socializer)
3. Cognitive (Thinker)
4. Behavioral (Director)
http://www.insteplimited.com/pdf/SKILLS/Communication_Styles.pdf
7. Interpersonal/Relator
Relators easily and readily express their
thoughts and feelings, but generally think at a
more conscious level and slower pace.
They are more relationship-oriented and prefer
unobtrusive interactions.
8. Affective/Socializer
Socializers prefer to work with others rather
than alone.
They generally interact with a fast-paced
communication style that can be interpreted as
aggressive.
9. Cognitive/Thinker
Thinkers are analytical in their approach and
have a more closed, personal style.
They often take time to feel comfortable
revealing ideas and information about
themselves to others.
10. Behavioral/Director
Directors are typically competitive and
aggressive in nature.
They are independent and results-oriented, less
focused on the impact felt by others.
11. Communication Among Different
Styles
In order to establish effective communication
amongst people that inherently operate with
different communication styles, it is important
to avoid misinterpretation of messages and
motives and instead develop a means of
learning and understanding.
12. Connecting with Relators
• Seek out and listen to their opinions and
ideas.
• Allow them time to make decisions without
pressure.
• Encourage them to express concerns or
opinions without aggressive opposition.
• Try to reach a mutual agreement on work
goals and deadlines.
13. Connecting with Socializers
• Allow time for socializing in meetings.
• Confirm and follow up on any agreements that
they have made.
• Discuss experiences, people, opinions and
facts, and attempt to support your ideas with
opinions of people they respect.
• Ask about, and respect, their “gut” feelings.
• Seek a balance between fun and achieving
results.
14. Connecting with Thinkers
• Speak and behave in a more formal manner.
• Present options along with the pros and cons
of an idea.
• Be punctual and follow up in writing.
• Ensure that information is presented in an
organized and comprehensive manner.
• Recognize that options considered risky are
generally not welcomed.
15. Connecting with Directors
• Get straight to the point and avoid over-explaining
or repeating yourself.
• Be sure to be well-prepared and organized.
• Be punctual and speak in a fast pace.
• Focus on the results that are to be achieved.
16. Effective communicators are those that are
able to learn the different communication
styles of others, recognize and adapt to
them.
This is important whether someone is
sharing or receiving information.
17. Cooperation and Efficiency in the
Workplace
The ability to communicate effectively is
essential to successful cooperation of
coworkers.
When there is clear communication throughout
an organization, it creates an environment in
which labor and tasks can be organized
efficiently, initiatives are known and pursued,
and profitability is maximized.
