We travel every day to some destination.  We go from one place to another place hopefully with the least amount of trouble.  In our busy lives, these travels are often on highways and expressways.  There is no time to analyze the details of the best route…just go, go, go.

A recent team-building workshop revealed the same issues found in our daily travels as with communication among staff members.  People are rushed, and they were using their own, preferred communication style to inform and give direction to other staff members.  They are not taking into account the person to whom they were speaking and their communication style that may be different than their own style.  Message sent was NOT message received.

During the workshop, participants learned about four basic communication styles.  They became familiar with the general characteristics as well as the sights (body language) and sounds (words) that are common to each communication style.  Prior to the workshop, each person completed an online survey, and during the workshop, a 23-page report was provided to each person which gave details about their own, preferred communication style.

After the workshop, the follow-up assignment had the participants read and validate the information found in the report.  Following adult learning principles, a questionnaire was also completed in which the participants stated the positive aspects of their communication style and how their communication style benefited them at work.  Additionally, the participants reflected on some aspects of their communication style that may hinder their effectiveness at work, and they wrote some ideas to control or eliminate those hindrances.

By taking time to learn different communication styles and learning their own style, the staff began to understand why there were some conflicts within the office.  The people began to appreciate the differences and strengths of the individuals.

Words are like roads; they are associated with action.  Just like we consider which way to go to reach our desired destination, let us think about how we can communicate more effectively to reach the desired results we want from others.

Sammie Palmer
Creative Training Designs