The word communicate is derived from the Latin word, communis, meaning commonness. When we are communicating, we are trying to establish commonness with others. We are trying to share information, encourage or inspire others, build rapport or persuade someone to make a change or see our point of view. In order to accomplish this, you will want to consider if the receiver has a preferred communication style so you can tap into it.

Some people are detailed thinkers and like to communicate lots of details. While they may think they are being effective with the receiver, the receiver might be thinking, “Information overload. Please stop.” Actually, that would be my reaction. I am a big-picture thinker. I think of the details but that comes after the big picture. And I prefer people to communicate with me in a big-picture fashion. If I want more details, I will ask for them. Of course, it helps me a lot that my assistant, Melia, is a detailed thinker. [Read more…]