Of the most common interpersonal skills models, only SOCIAL STYLE is based on observable behaviors and not personality. Learn why this approach to improving communication and relationships is the most effective.
Don’t Try to Analyze Personalities
It’s so hard to figure out someone’s personality without judging, or knowing what they’re feeling. We just simply don’t know what’s going on in their mind. It’s much easier to observe their behaviors. Some observable behaviors in the workplace consist of eye contact, pace of speech and language used, and use of hands while talking.
We Just Don’t Know
Since we don’t know what others are thinking or feeling, it’s important to observe behavior before jumping to conclusions. Personality surveys like DiSC and Myers-Briggs help us understand ourselves. However, they don’t help us improve how we communicate and collaborate with others.
SOCIAL STYLE and Measuring Behaviors
SOCIAL STYLE is a tool that helps us discover how others like to use their time, make decisions, and deal with stress. Every person is a different SOCIAL STYLE and it’s important to learn a person’s STYLE in order to work with them properly. Learning about observable behaviors leads to ease in the workplace.
Analytical Style: People with an Analytical Style are typically described by others as quiet, logical and sometimes reserved or cautious. They tend to appear distant from others and may not communicate unless there is a specific need to do so.
Expressive Style: People with an Expressive Style tend to be more willing to make their feelings known to others. They can appear to react impulsively and openly show both positive and negative feelings. They are typically described by others as personable, talkative and sometimes opinionated.
Amiable Style: People with an Amiable Style openly display their feelings to others. They appear less demanding and generally more agreeable than others. They are interested in achieving a rapport with others who often describe them as informal, casual and easy going.
Driving Style: People with a Driving Style are seen by others as direct, active, forceful and determined. They initiate social interaction and they focus their efforts and the efforts of others on the goals and objectives they wish to get accomplished.
By learning a person’s STYLE, you are able to communicate and collaborate more effectively with your coworkers. And you can even use a SOCIAL STYLE out in the world in friendships and relationships to understand others better. In the workplace, this enhances your worker’s personal growth and brings substantial benefits to your organization.
Learn more about the four STYLES and the SOCIAL STYLE model here.