By Michael Gidlewski

If you have been reading my posts over the last few weeks and using the communication tools provided, you hopefully have some understanding of your own personal communication style. You may even be able to formulate an informed guess at the primary communication style of others using the DISC model. The key to effective communication is to adapt your communication style as best you can so that the people you are speaking to actually receive the information you are giving them in the way you intended.

So how do you adapt your communication style? Some personalized suggestions were given in the TTI SI Working From Home Report. If you haven’t taken the assessment yet, you can do so here. I also want to give you three general strategies for effective communication now.

#1. Set and ask for clear expectations. We primarily judge situations not by what happens, but how they compare to what we expect to happen. The goal is to create mutually clear expectations in every situation, conversation and project – for every future event.

#2. Be proactive. Proactivity is the freedom and ability to choose our own responses. Although behavior is impacted by our genetics and environment, we have the power to choose how we act and respond to others. That power increases as we build awareness of self and others. We do not have to react on autopilot to emotional triggers or stay stuck in negative communication patterns. If we seek first to understand rather than be understood (Prayer of St. Francis), we can improve our communication with others and our relationships.

#3. Ask Yourself “The Central Question”. Peter Demarest, founder of Axiogenics, LLC. developed “The Central Question” of life, love and leadership – “What choice can I make and what action can I take to create the greatest net value”. If you ask yourself this question when communicating with others, remember that “the greatest net value” is for all parties involved. This question helps us remain proactive and choose the most appropriate communication style to achieve our goals.

If you want to learn more about your own personal communication style and improve your communication face to face and online, you can attend The Presence Summit – an all-day virtual event this Wednesday, July 15^th. I will be speaking live beginning at 9:15 AM. Click here for more information.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Gidlewski is President of West Chester-based Achievement Unlimited, Inc., as well as a growth catalyst and motivational speaker. He works with business owners and entrepreneurs to clearly define what they want their businesses and lives to look like, then helps them connect all the moving parts to consistent action and habits. Michael can be reached at 610-793-6609 or via e-mail at michael@achievable.com.

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