TRACOM Learning: Your Gateway to Social Intelligence Training

About Nicole Groenke

Nicole serves as Business Development and Marketing Coordinator for TRACOM. She is happy to share her sales and marketing experience through practical content. When she’s not cooking or practicing yoga she enjoys checking out cookbooks from the library and learning how to play tennis.

View all posts by Nicole Groenke

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Are people drawn to certain occupations because th

Are people drawn to certain occupations because these jobs fit with their SOCIAL STYLE? While all Styles are represented across all occupations, it only makes sense that some people will choose their occupations because the skills and environment appeal to their natures. We examined our North American database and found that Amiable Style people are highly represented in several jobs, notably teaching (43% are Amiable), human resources (30%), and training professional (28%). These individuals are caring and supportive, sociable, and like to help others. Therefore, it is no surprise that they are well represented in these three occupations. #SocialStyleTip #AmiableStyle

A good way to increase your openness is to regular

A good way to increase your openness is to regularly ask for others' opinions. Make it a point to ask about others' opinions and perspectives. Though it seems obvious, there is no better way to understand what others are thinking and feeling than to ask them. Be sure to solicit people's thoughts in a non-threatening way; be neutral. For example, ask "What are your thoughts or concerns about this?" instead of "Any questions?" If you ask the right type of questions, you are almost certain to get people's opinions.

Expressive Style people are fast-paced, so get to

Expressive Style people are fast-paced, so get to the point quickly. Be clear about your message and what you want to accomplish, and don't provide too many details since these can be discussed later during a follow-up conversation. Speak at a deliberate pace, with confidence, and don't speak too slowly. If possible, provide some motivation for the person to call you back. Although you should try to be brief and to the point, these individuals look for personal connections, so it's okay to leave personal remarks, humorous statements, and personal salutations. #SocialStyleTip #ExpressiveStyle

Learn what motivates others. A common mistake is t

Learn what motivates others. A common mistake is to assume that what motivates you will motivate others. If you are motivated by the personal recognition you receive for succeeding on a project, do not assume that offering such recognition to others will be enough to motivate them to succeed. All people have different things that they value, and it is these things that will motivate them. Some people are motivated by achieving goals, others by learning new skills, others by having control and authority, and others by working with a team of people. Find out what is important to each person you want to motivate. Rather than guessing at what motivates others, take the time to ask them what is important to them and what motivates them. It will typically be something they strongly value.

Analytical Style people can be hesitant to express

Analytical Style people can be hesitant to express their opinions, so it is sometimes necessary to ask questions to get their input. They generally prefer specific closed-ended questions that allow them to give precise responses (e.g., What is the deadline for this project) although they may elaborate on their response if they think it's necessary. They don't mind open-ended questions (e.g., How can we manage this project so we meet the deadline) but you may have to allow them some time to determine a response. Also, their response might include tangents, so be prepared to focus them back on the key information. A particularly effective method with these individuals is to send them questions in emails prior to asking in person. This gives them a chance to think it over and determine their responses.

When you find yourself in an emotionally charged s

When you find yourself in an emotionally charged situation, maintain self-control by solving a mental problem. This works by forcing your brain into action, preventing it from releasing stress hormones that create strong physical and emotional responses. Actively distracting yourself is an effective way to maintain self-control. If you are suddenly in a situation where you are feeling anger or frustration, for instance, shift your focus from the other person or situation to a mental problem. Make the problem challenging. For example, work out the solution to 15 x 18. This will force your brain to focus on the math problem and away from the stressful situation. The old adage that you should count to ten is not effective. The reason is that it is too easy and therefore, does not actively engage the brain. Distracting yourself with a difficult problem is an effective strategy for avoiding an emotional reaction. It is not important to solve the problem correctly. The point is to engage the brain region that solves problems, thereby preventing the emotional center of your brain from flooding the bloodstream with adrenalin and other stress hormones that cause strong emotional reactions.