In a book “Surrounded by Idiots” leadership coach Thomas Erickson talked about 4 types of personalities. He defines personality types by 4 different colors, we’re gonna use in our very first post!
Let’s start with some explanations. Why do we think this topic is important and decide to post it at the very beginning of our journey with this blog? After understanding the high-level personality types, you can triage people within 30 seconds and understand how to communicate with them easier. Sounds useful, doesn’t it?
Moreover, learning how to identify people by personality type can bring a higher level of understanding to interpersonal relationships and team building. That’s why we think it is worth it to recognize each of four personality types and know which one we are.
Each person is a unique combination of two, three or even four personality types. Only 5% of our population is “monocoloured”. It’s important to remember that one of the personality types is not better than the other three. Each type is just different, and different approaches should be taken to communicate to each of them.
However, some characteristics prevail, and that explains why we don’t always get along and tend to consider ‘the others’ idiots. Our dominant colour influences the way we approach life and the way others perceive us.
When we walk into a meeting room, our personalities walk in with us, hard to leave them outside. It is fascinating, as described in the book, to see how people behave in meetings depending on their personality.
Now you probably want to know which colors are used to describe types of personality and what are characteristics for each of them. But first we would like to invite you to take this short test to check what type of personality you are!
Think about which of the four phrases best describes the way you perceive yourself in professional situations. It doesn't have to be a quality you always manifest. It's enough that it characterises you in most situations. Write 4 points next to this phrase. Next, choose a phrase in the same line that describes your character to a slightly lesser extent and write 3 points next to it. Write 2 points next to the following one and 1 point at the end - next to the phrase that to the least extent reflects how you perceive yourself in professional situations.
Done? Great! Now count the points. Which color has the most points? Voila! This is your type of personality. Remember - one of the personality types is not better than the other three. Each type is just different, and different approaches should be taken to communicate to each of them.
This style is decisive, competitive, independent, and confident. Because the person with a Direct communication style is focused, results-oriented, ambitious, goal-oriented, and driven, others may perceive her as strong-willed or demanding. She can be seen as impatient when bored.
She likes to feel in control and may become frustrated if dependent on others. She measures progress by achievements and successes and is motivated by challenges. At work she displays more concern for results than relationships and does not easily share feelings. Her pace is fast and decisive and she likes a busy, efficient, structured, and formal environment.
This style is sociable, enthusiastic, energetic, spontaneous, and fun-loving. Due to the gregarious nature of the person with an Initiating communication style, he may be perceived as someone who talks more than listens. He is often perceived as self- assured, innovative, and persuasive.
He likes to feel accepted and is motivated by relationships. He responds strongly to praise and approval. His pace is fast and he may appear impulsive at times. He prefers a stimulating, personal, and friendly work environment.
This style is calm, steady, approachable, sincere, and gentle. Because the person with a Supportive communication style dislikes change, she may appear indecisive. More often she is perceived as careful, patient, and amiable. Due to her active listening skills, others see her as cooperative, dependable, and loyal.
She is often modest and prefers praise be given privately. Patient and slow-paced, she likes a personal, relaxed, no-tension environment. She puts high priority on close relationships and does not like conflict, but may mediate if necessary.
This style is precise, exact, analytical, and logical. Because the person with an Analytical communication style is systematic and task-oriented, he is sometimes perceived as a perfectionist. He is organized, self-reliant, purposeful, and diplomatic.
He is motivated by certainty and will rarely give an opinion unless asked. He
is slow and cautious in his pace and likes a structured, ordered, and functional environment. Because he needs to feel sure of his position and others’ expectations, he is often private with personal information and does not easily express emotions.
So now when we all know which type of personality is ours we can also try to match the personalities of the people we know. It would be nice to know how to communicate with each type easily. That’s why we wanna share with you some tips.
HOW TO ADAPT TO OTHER COMMUNICATION STYLE?
Direct Communicators
Direct communicators prefer when you get to the point quickly and in a succinct manner. When dealing with these communicators, be specific and avoid over-explaining or repeating yourself. Focus on solutions and only provide details when asked.
Initiating Communicators
Initiating communicators value interacting with others and sharing stories. Allow time for socializing at the beginning of meetings and create a friendly, non-threatening environment. Provide time for them to express their feelings and opinions.
Supportive Communicators
Supportive communicators appreciate a calm, steady approach. Earn their trust by providing them with plenty of reassurance. When seeking their opinions and ideas, encourage them to express their concerns and allow them time to make decisions.
Analytical Communicators
Analytical communicators like facts and figures. Present information to them in an organized manner and be prepared to answer questions. Be patient while they think through and process new information.
Hope this article was interesting and helpful!
Share with us in the comment below which color you are!
W&O&K&J
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