The Words and the Way you Pronounce Them

We wouldn’t be a good IT company without accepting diversity. Diversity also means a variety of personalities that gives different types of communication styles too. In our office, we daily face up with complex problems that require cooperation, between us and between clients and us as well.

Everyone’s opinion, no matter how different, is part of the solution, that’s why we are a team. That kind of attitude gives us the responsibility to adapt our responses in conversations. When paying attention to this, we perceive a peaceful but productive work environment without stress. By bringing the answer, at the same time, we are all satisfied and inspired.

Do you ever think about your words before you speak? If you try you will notice a lot of little things you can change to improve communication skills. Business constantly demands maintaining good relations with the clients but most important is expanding our network of contacts to enable trust in potential clients too. We focus on words aware of the impact they leave.

Everything brings us to the 4 styles of communication and by listing them you have the opportunity to see in which one you see yourself or someone else.

You will easily recognize this type. The loudest one in the room, always in the center of attention, and the smartest one. You can’t see it coming, but in the blank of the eye, from explanation to persuasion they will explode and start yelling. It is not strange using harsh words and insults. In conversation with them, maybe you’ll feel uncomfortable and wish to run away (it depends on how you react). With the intent to elevate themselves and show domination, they will humiliate others.

However, although they seem extremely unpleasant, they have quality personality traits. Persistence and creativity may be their golden characteristics. Even though in their core is low self-esteem, they somehow act as very confident and sure. They carry a lot of energy but with difficulties to express it adequately. Cooperation can be very successful but only if they are ready to accept suggestions and learn how to use their liveness. Probably some strict bosses crossed your mind while reading this but try to see the other side of the coin. Remember, they are very responsible and capable of bringing important business decisions.

With this style, the aggressive always manage to cope easily. The passive one will sit still and listen carefully thinking it is their fault. They agree with everyone thinking they are not competent enough to stand for themselves, so talking much is not their thing. Physical appearance shows insecurity, they are hunched over and their voices are quiet. If it comes to discomfort you wouldn’t know because they never say it aloud. In their head, every person’s needs are before theirs.

Passive style is rarely in management positions in the company, but if they come across similar colleagues, they can successfully fit in and be successful. All they need, from time to time, is little support and encouragement. Their positive trait, adaptability, show respect, and it is not uncommon for them to listen well, which is, you have to admit, a very rare quality in today’s chaotic everyday life and business. They will work considering all the remarks and suggestions but be careful with criticism, because, often they take it personally and motivation can be reduced. It is generally pleasant to be with them because they are calm and do not stand out too much.

An awkward combination of the previous two. Passive-aggressive is always cautious and it looks like it is in a state of constant attack. All this is out of avoiding defending and justifying themselves. They enjoy gossiping and often make a fuss while presenting themselves as a victim. The distinction is, they receive and analyze statements differently than others and because of that, you can be misunderstood. Responding with sarcasm there is no room for you to react adequately. Such statements are followed by a calm body position and kindness, but you feel a little uneasiness because you may not be able to adapt to strange reactions.

Although it is a little harder to reach an agreement and balance in partnership, they successfully adapt to the broader picture of each company. Their concealment of feelings allows a sense of stability which opens up a great space for work and progress. You just need to adapt, a little more to this style than to others.

It is characterized by compromise. They express opinions openly without pressure but at the same time respect others’, whatever it may be. Trying hard to understand what someone wanted to say the communication partner is fully understood. That gives a special note to interaction you will remember. They are the kind of people you like to meet and talk to. Teamwork with assertive business partners is certainly long term. Relaxed, always in a good mood and accessible, their emotions and expressions are harmonized.

Their sentence is direct and clear, without hidden intentions, so there is no doubt and embarrassment. Frustration is not familiar to them because they solve stress as it comes, patiently and pretty good. That’s why assertiveness provides good mental health. Bringing a solution calmly, concerning others but also themselves. This stands out as the most constructive expression of communication and we should all strive for it.

The style of communication is developed in childhood, during upbringing, and has deep roots. That explains why it is so hard to change it. However, as we already said in the previous blog, there is no chance without change, noticing what style we belong to and becoming aware of its weaknesses is extremely important both for our progress and for business space.

If you haven’t recognized yourself in an assertive way of communication it’s okay, you have something to work on. We are all different and we need to accept that. When you learn how to be with yourself, you will learn as well as with others. This leads to real, successful communication but also a strong business reputation.

Finally, we have listed the rights that assertive persons should stick to:

-To be treated with respect -The right to have your own needs as important as someone else’s

-The right to make mistakes and change opinions

-The right to make your own choices and decisions

-The right to express your feelings and thoughts -The right to evaluate your behavior

-The right to set your priorities -The right to say “no” without feeling guilty

-The right not to make choices for others -The right to be confident