Communication Skills Tip: Seeing Beyond Our Own Perspectives

So many of us in the business world have taken personality test after personality test. Are you an ISTP or are you an ENTJ? What are you in the DISC profile? Each type has preferences for styles of communication, modes of reflecting and acting, and methods for personal development. In the DISC profile, I'm a D and I. High "D" people can be described as demanding, forceful, egocentric, strong willed, driving, determined, ambitious, aggressive, and pioneering. High "I" people are often characterized as convincing, magnetic, political, enthusiastic, persuasive, warm, demonstrative, trusting, and optimistic. It's a nice combination especially when finding the flow between the two. When it comes to modes of business communication, as a "D", I tend to prefer a quick email to keep me informed about the day-to-day. However, because I have strong leanings towards the "I" profile, I always enjoy meaningful conversations with my staff and aim for face-to-face dialogue for crucial or sensitive topics. When it comes to personal development, I am a fan of personality tests as one way to get closer to who we are and how we fit in to the puzzles of our lives. I do feel, however, that we all need to find our authentic selves by throwing out what we believe does not match and molding that which we believe does. And it is even more important to distinguish between the stereotypes we place on others due to assessments such as Myers Briggs and the DISC profile and the subtle ways in which they may not fit into one box . We all have our communication preferences and unique perspectives. We also all have the capability to change and as transformation is all around us, we need to pay extra attention not only to each other’s tendencies but to each others’ capacity for new ways of seeing and behaving. I see a need for us to become more heightened in our interpersonal communication awareness and more diligent in our respect for others. This will keep us all on track and interacting well. To be added to Lanartco's Communication Performance Tip of the Week, please connect to this link or send your email address to info@lanartco.com.