Notes from the SLA session Effective Communication Strategies: How to understand and be understood
Pamela Bruner's Effective Communication Strategies session from SLA's 2009 Annual Conference is highly recommended. She describes each of four common Communication Styles:
*Action Person/Driver/Acheiver - task and results oriented, decisive, take charge
*Idea Person/Expresser/Visionary - Innovative, Creative, Passionate, people oriented, see big picture
*People Person/Relator/Likeables - Warm, Helpful, Supportive, feeling
*Process Person/Analytical/Reflective - Detail-oriented, methodical, lots of data, precise
Bruner then outlines specific, proven techniques for communicating with people who manifest a particular type of style. Read a complete summary of the session for suggested language and approaches to make sure your message is heard.