Communication Styles
5 Types of Communication Styles in the Workplace and Tips
Let’s talk about the most common communication styles in the workplace. We’ll also look at the purpose of each style and how you can improve your communication skills in the workplace.
The most important facts
– The communication style is made up of tone of voice, choice of words and action.
– Every communication style has advantages and disadvantages.
– To improve your style, you need to learn to have real conversations with others.
Why are communication styles important?
Not understanding a person’s communication style can lead to misunderstandings in the workplace. By understanding each person’s unique characteristics and mastering your own communication style, you will have more control over how you convey important messages clearly and effectively.
Each communication style can also evoke certain feelings in recipients. Each style can make someone feel empowered, frustrated, trusting, guilty, or otherwise. To create a positive work environment, choose communication styles that encourage your employees and avoid unnecessary negative reactions.
5 types of communication styles
Below are the five most common communication styles you will encounter in the workplace.
Note that these styles are not mutually exclusive. You can combine elements from multiple styles or switch between them to achieve the most effective communication within the context of your individual leadership style.
1.Aggressive communication style
Aggressive communicators use this style to try to dominate the discussion. They speak louder than the other participants, maintain intense eye contact and invade each other’s personal space during the conversation.
Those who use this style intentionally or unintentionally belittle their interlocutor. This can lead to resentment that undermines the intention behind their words. It is not impossible to use an aggressive communication style in a professional environment; however, it requires skill to appear confident and not arrogant.
Because there is so much room for misinterpretation, it is best to avoid an aggressive communication style if possible.
Examples of an aggressive communication style include:
- “You all made too many mistakes on this project.”
- “Just do what you’re told.”
- “I think you’re wrong, so I’ll do it my way.”
2.Passive communication style
The passive communication style aims to avoid conflict through modest and casual language, but can also cause speakers to have difficulty expressing themselves. As a result, more assertive voices lead the conversation. This is sometimes referred to as a more submissive communication style.
Passive communicators’ tendency to dance around uncomfortable topics can also lead to misunderstandings in the workplace. While submissive speech patterns can make it easier to deal with difficult customers or colleagues, they are less useful in a more collaborative environment.
Examples of a passive communication style include:
- “It’s no big deal, we can handle it.”
- “I don’t want to start an argument, but…”.
3.Passive-aggressive communication style
A passive-aggressive communicator uses techniques from both eponymous styles. In this style, you use the outwardly modest tone of the passive style to hide more aggressive feelings. Like a passive speaker, a passive-aggressive communication style tends to avoid direct conflict, creating a discrepancy between actions and actual opinions.
Passive-aggressive employees express their dissatisfaction through indirect methods such as gossip, rumors, silence, and condescension. This type of communication is generally inappropriate in a business environment and will only result in your employees becoming frustrated and the social situation worsening.
Examples of a passive-aggressive communication style include:
- “Sure, I have no problem doing things your way.” (Then murmurs, “It’s not like it would work…”)
- “Yes, I’m happy to help.” (But then does exactly the opposite of what you tell them.)
- “I am not annoyed; It’s okay that you didn’t listen to me.”
4.Manipulative communication style
As a manipulative communicator, you use cunning tactics to steer the discussion in your desired direction. This style influences others to behave a certain way while hiding your true intentions.
Manipulative conversation styles are harder to recognize because they can seem like more personable conversation patterns. However, if your manipulations are exposed, anything you say may come across as insincere.
Manipulative speakers can cause problems in the workspace. However, they can use their ability to assert themselves more positively if they focus on meeting the needs of their employees.
Because a manipulative communication style relies on obfuscation, it is difficult to detect through words alone. Instead, pay attention to discrepancies between what a person says and their actions.
Examples of a manipulative communication style include:
- “I have to finish this project by Friday; If only there was someone to help me…”
- “I rushed to finish the presentation by the deadline; I wonder if it’s good enough.”
5.Assertive communication style
A confident communicator shows confidence in what they say without monopolizing the conversation. This communication style is most effective at work because it encourages collaboration. As an assertive speaker, you consider the viewpoints of others while conveying your own perspective and seeking compromise when disagreements arise.
Examples of a confident communication style include:
- “I see your point, but I respectfully disagree for XYZ reasons.”
- “I feel like you yelling at me during the meeting is not conducive to the discussion.”
- “Does anyone else have anything to say before we continue?”
Tips for improving your communication style
If you feel like your communication skills or those of your managers could use a refresher, here are some steps you can take to improve them.
Have conversations, not lectures
Effective communication is reciprocal, so it’s important to listen to each other’s points of view. Give your interviewer space to explain their options and practice active listening when it’s their turn. A discourse on specific topics ensures that employees engage with what you have to say, while an unsolicited speech causes employees to turn away.
Show empathy and authenticity
Genuine caring and personal responsibility play a key role in developing natural charisma. Try to see every conversation through your employee’s eyes to better understand their perspective. Try to better clarify your point of view using “I” statements and avoid placing your own problems on the shoulders of others.
Be open to feedback
Feedback helps you improve your communication skills by providing a perspective other than your own. Constructive feedback from your team can reveal problems in your tone and word choice that you might not have noticed otherwise.
Frequently asked questions about communication styles
What are the main communication styles?
The five main communication styles include:
– Aggressive communication. Used to monopolize the conversation.
– Passive communication. Used to avoid conflicts.
– Passive-aggressive communication. Used to avoid conflict while still showing aggression.
– Manipulative communication. Used to direct the actions of others in the speaker’s favor.
– Assertive communication. Used to encourage collaboration.
What is the best communication style?
The assertive communication style is considered the best for the workplace because it promotes productive discussions and minimizes disagreements.
Use the right style for the right task
Most people use more than one communication style and switch depending on the situation. By keeping in mind each team member’s primary way of speaking, you can use them where they will be most successful.