Discover Your Personal Style of Communication: Tips and Tricks

Effective communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, whether it be personal or professional. However, not everyone communicates in the same way. Developing an understanding of your personal style of communication can help you to communicate more effectively and improve your relationships. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks to help you discover your personal style of communication.

Understanding Communication Styles

There are four main styles of communication; assertive, aggressive, passive, and passive-aggressive. Each style has its own unique set of characteristics.

• Assertive communication is clear and respectful. It involves stating your needs and opinions in a direct and confident way without infringement on others.
• Aggressive communication is forceful and disrespectful. It involves attacking others’ needs and opinions to assert your own.
• Passive communication is indirect and non-confrontational. It involves avoiding conflict and not expressing needs or opinions.
• Passive-aggressive communication is a combination of passive and aggressive communication. It involves agreeing to do something but not following through or sabotaging the situation indirectly.

Now let’s explore how to discover your personal communication style.

Assessing Your Communication Style

To assess your personal style of communication, start by reflecting on how you typically communicate in different situations. Take note of your tone of voice, body language, and the words you use. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Am I clear and confident when expressing my needs and opinions?
• Do I avoid conflict or become defensive when challenged?
• Do I speak up when something is bothering me, or do I keep my feelings to myself?
• Do I listen actively when someone else is speaking, or do I interrupt and dominate the conversation?

Answering these questions honestly will help you identify your communication style.

Improving Your Communication Style

Once you’ve identified your personal communication style, you can start to make changes to improve your communication skills. Here are some tips and tricks to help you communicate more effectively:

• Practice active listening. When someone else is speaking, give them your full attention, and don’t interrupt.
• Be clear and concise. Speak in a direct and confident manner, and avoid ambiguity and vagueness.
• Express your needs and opinions honestly and respectfully.
• Avoid defensiveness. If someone challenges you, listen to their perspective and respond thoughtfully.
• Manage your emotions. Stay calm and composed, even in difficult situations.

Conclusion

Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships, both personally and professionally. Understanding your personal style of communication can help you communicate more effectively, improve your relationships, and achieve your goals. Remember to practice active listening, be clear and concise, express yourself honestly and respectfully, avoid defensiveness, and manage your emotions. By implementing these tips and tricks, you can become a more confident and effective communicator.