Misunderstandings between people often occur simply because the sender and receiver have different communication styles and expectations.  If one person is slow, deliberate, and thorough and the other is fast paced and decisive, their interpersonal relationship may be tense unless they are aware of each other’s communication preferences.  Knowledge of communication styles help reduce the likelihood of such frustrations occurring. 

COMMUNICATION STYLES:

• DIRECT: Direct communications tell it like it is.  They are decisive, take charge people who like to be in control.  They possess strong leadership skills, have the ability to get things done, and work single-mindedly toward their goals. Sometimes direct communicators can be perceived as being too strong-willed and overbearing.  In their quest to get things done quickly, they may overlook important details.  Focusing on feelings is not generally a strength of direct communicators, so they may be viewed in some interactions as lacking empathy.
• SPIRITED: Spirited communicators are enthusiastic, friendly and optimistic.  They love to be around other people and enjoy the spotlight.  They are good at building alliances and are able to motivate others and generate excitement about issues and projects.  They enjoy a fast pace and are decisive decision makers.  Spirited communicators are not always the best listeners.  They can also exaggerate to make their point, behave impulsively, and gloss over important issues in an effort to rally support for their cause.
• CONSIDERATE: People with considerate communication style value warm, personal relationships with others.  They are good listeners, reliable and steady, and supportive of others in a group.  Because considerate communicators are easygoing, they may be reluctant to change, preferring to stick with what is comfortable.  And because they want to avoid conflict, they may keep their opinions to themselves, give in too easily and not achieve what they want.
• SYSTEMATIC: People with a systematic communication style value accuracy and objectivity.  They are analytical in their approach to problem solving and base their decision making on facts and data.  They are persistent, orderly, and organized in their approach to their work and their relations with others.  Systematic communicators can also be viewed as impersonal and detached, putting accuracy and details ahead of other’s feelings.

Paula Jorde Bloom – Blueprint for Action