How to Communicate With 3 Different Personality Types at Work

By Martin Hahn

Humans are unique in terms of behavior. They show all kinds of different behavior even if they are confronted with the same situations. This is especially true in the workplace. Some workers like to constantly do something in order to get things done and have a feeling of accomplishment. Others like influence others to get things done whereas others try to connect people in order to accomplish something. These three characters can be identified as doers, influencers, and connectors. These three characters have become important figures in the new world of work which is nowadays called the knowledge economy. The doers, influencers, and connectors are basically the new knowledge workers.

How to communicate with doers

These people like to act fast in order to get things done fast. They are inclined go straight to the heart of the problem without any formalities. They try to avoid all kinds of minor details and try to find the best short cuts otherwise they will face boredom. They cherish freedom and accept its risks. They are innovators who often start their own business. They like being acknowledged by the public for their achievements in their area of expertise. They do not like theories and discourses; they like to act. These doers can be found most often in the world of business. They do what they need to do without consulting management textbooks. They are just interested in one thing: action.

They do not like small talk because they want to be to the point. When communicating with doers also try to be straight to the point, avoid complicated stories, speak in direct and short sentences, give direct responses, and avoid theories and debating about their views. In short, try to deliver your messages in a straightforward manner and avoid complicated facts which are difficult to comprehend with common sense. Always appreciate their actions and give fast responses to avoid their boredom.

How to communicate with influencers

These persons like to process their thoughts in a verbal manner. They like to ‘think hard’ when communicating with others. They like to interrupt others especially if the topic of discussion. They do not consider it to be an interruption, but as part of a lively conversation.

They like to interact with others because they are polite, creative, and persuasive. However, they need someone else to do their job. They like social interactions, recognition, and opportunities to show off their creativity. They like to help others solve a problem because they are good in forming long lasting relationships. They like others with sincerity, but this might lead to sad dramas because they do not realize the psychological impacts of their interventions in other people’s lives. Their most favorite activity in their spare time is teasing others.

When communicating with the influencer use cheerful words because they like happiness, allow them to cut off your sentence as long as the conversation is continued afterwards, show sympathy when they are talking, pretend to be influenced by them, and avoid debating with them. If you control yourself, these people will not be able to influence you. Ironically, they are truly impressed by others who are not influenced by them.

How to communicate with connectors

These persons are the connectors of several persons who are experiencing a common problem. They are hard workers and trustworthy persons. They like to listen to opinions of others than giving their own opinions. Although they seem to be tough at times, they can accept changes as long as they are useful for themselves and others. When communication with connectors try to be honest and to the point, ask what they have done so far, praise them in a personal and sincere way, appreciate them with smiles and other relevant body language to show your admiration for them, always say that they know better, avoid small talk, and ask for their opinions and praise their opinions. Connectors are effective workers who can follow instructions well if you know how to appreciate their accomplishments. They will become good colleagues if we can speak with in a straightforward and responsible manner. Consistency is also important for them and it will all lead to the fulfillment of expected outcomes.