In the late 1970s, a unique training video was created, featuring the remarkable actor and comedian Robin Williams portraying a variety of SOCIAL STYLE characters. This project was a collaboration between HP and Wilson Learning, a TRACOM reseller at the time. Before Williams became a household name with his role in ABC’s comedy series Mork and Mindy, he was hired for this commercial training video, showcasing his incredible creativity, talent and signature rainbow suspenders.
The video was produced by a TRACOM authorized reseller specifically for client use. Its purpose was to educate viewers on the core concepts of SOCIAL STYLE, a framework designed to help people understand and predict behavior in interpersonal interactions. SOCIAL STYLE categorizes behavior into four primary types: Analytical, Driving, Expressive, and Amiable, each with distinct traits and ways of relating to others.
Despite some of the characters and Style examples being exaggerated and dated, the core concepts of SOCIAL STYLE remain highly relevant today. Robin Williams’ performance in the video is both entertaining and instructional, illustrating the essence of each SOCIAL STYLE through his dynamic character portrayals. His ability to switch between different personas showcases his comedic genius and understanding of human behavior.
While the characters in the video might seem over-the-top by contemporary standards, they effectively highlight the key traits of each SOCIAL STYLE. This video is not only a fascinating glimpse into Robin Williams’ early career but also a timeless educational tool. The SOCIAL STYLE concepts it portrays continue to offer valuable insights into the dynamics of interpersonal communication, proving that understanding human behavior transcends time.
