#234 Capturing Communication Styles

Last week, there were in-person sessions and other activities for projects that are underway at my company. People from multiple overseas locations also gathered. When there is such a diverse group of people, there are various communication styles, and I reflected on how one can utilize them.

First of all, I felt again that each of us has our own unique approach.

For example, when you want to ask a question, do you ask immediately on the spot or do you set up a meeting to ask the question?

And do you use communication tools, such as email, chat, or other apps?

Do you meet face-to-face, or do you talk less and use email or chat?

Body language also reveals each individua’s own style.

Is the person extroverted and immediately come to the desk to talk directly? At an online meeting, is their screen always/often turned off?

I believe that each of these things expresses the person and is the "communication style" of the person as a whole.

By understanding this, you can determine how to approach the other person in order to communicate effectively.

The first step in this process is to observe the other person.

For example, how does the person ask questions?

Do they include a lot of information in their emails or chats?

Or does he/she communicate verbally anyway?

You will surely see a certain communication style pattern after simply observing for a little while.

What I do is to use that and try to incorporate it into my communication with them.

By doing so, I reduce the gaps in communication.

For example, what if you send a long email or set up a meeting with someone who wants to speak to you verbally right away?

You can probably imagine the other person getting more easily frustrated.

Because I’ve worked for global corporations, I am often asked the question, "Aren’t communication styles different in different countries?”

Of course, the country in which the person was raised, as well as the individual background, has a big impact.

The distance at which you speak, how and how often you speak at meetings, and other details may also differ.

However, even within one culture or ethnic group, every individual has their own unique communication styles. I personally experienced this in particular this week.

I’d encourage you to take a moment to observe the people you come into contact with on a daily basis and see what their "communication styles” look like.

Then, after understanding their style, you can use it in your approach to them.

I think it is a good idea to start by observing those with whom you feel there is a gap in communication.

Each one of us plays an important role, regardless of how we communicate. With that in mind, I will share a photo of a card I recently purchased.

It is already the last week of March! I know many people in Japan are busy processing the end of the fiscal year.

Let's take care of ourselves and take good care of each other!

I wish everyone a week with as many smiles as possible!