Each individual’s communications style varies. Despite having a preferred or natural style of communicating, certain situations require assuming a different communication style in order to communicate more effectively. In my case, as a supportive communicator, I was once forced to assume more of a directive communication style in order to complete a group project for which I was assigned as the group leader. This experience has helped me both better understand my style of communication as well as the skills to flex my communication style in order to be an effective communicator in different situations.
After taking the communication style assessment, I was able to determine that my communication style is that of a supportive communicator. As a supportive communicator, I tend to be more reserved. I am an observer more than an attention seeker and prefer to sit back and listen attentively to others rather than speak up and have all attention on me. I am also largely reflective, which means that I take my time when making decisions and tend to be quiet, valuing my alone time. Naturally, this makes me more of a follower than a leader.
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During a group project, I was assigned the position of group leader, which is a position more characteristic of a person with a directive communication style. At first, I thought that it would be difficult to lead the group; however, I soon found that assuming more of a directive communication style, where I projected a very serious “get the job done” type of attitude, greatly assisted in this task. As the group leader, I had to take control, assign duties, and ensure that the group stayed on task.
Without assuming more of a directive communication style during the group project, I would not have been successful in the position as group leader. As such, the style flexing from supportive/reflective to directive made me a more effective communicator which motivated the group toward our common goal of completing the project. The flexing of my communication style was uncomfortable at first; however, is a skill that greatly benefitted me at the time and likely will in the future.
