Of course no one sets out to intentionally offend or cause friction when they speak or communicate with large groups of people; and yet, everyone has a unique style of communication—which can differ dramatically from group to group. Because of our inherent style differences, there is a chance that we might unintentionally offend someone or create unnecessary conflict.
When speaking to large groups of people, it is important to recognize the interaction or communication style of others and then mirror or “match” that style when communicating with them. Your interaction will be more effective, you will increase engagement and create rapport, and you will be more likely to achieve desired results.
The challenge for any professional is for them to adapt their style to the style of their audience or to the person to whom they are speaking. The good news is that anyone can learn to do this. It gets easier with practice and, in time, will become second-nature.
Becoming familiar with the differences between the four distinct communication styles, will help you become a more effective speaker or facilitator:
Initiators want action. Their speech tone is often blunt, emphatic, and no-nonsense. An Initiator is not shy about invading someone’s personal space to make a point. They hold direct, sustained eye contact and often gesture by pointing or chopping the air to emphasize their words.
Builders value recognition and appreciation. Builders love to share their ideas and their “big picture” viewpoint. They use a varied, animated tone. They like to be near people and will often touch others when speaking. Builders give intermittent eye contact. They use expansive gestures and descriptive language, and are generally enthusiastic.
Connectors are relationship-oriented. They enjoy being a part of a group and collaborate well with others. Connectors use a quieter tone of voice, and do their best to avoid conflict. Connectors appreciate a generous personal space, especially when in a group of strangers. Often Connectors avoid direct eye contact when conversing, instead looking down or to the side. Their gestures are casual, not emphatic.
Discoverers value precision, accuracy, and process. They are fact-oriented and need data to make decisions. Discoverers use little inflection when speaking unless they disagree, then they may become cynical or sarcastic. They like at least one arm’s length spacing between themselves and others. When asked a question, a Discoverer will look to the sides before answering. They use minimal hand gestures, preferring instead to cross their arms or keep them at their sides.
Below is a chart to help you identify the differences that different styles present:
|
Style |
Priorities |
Tone |
Proximity to Others |
Eye Contact |
Hand Gestures |
|
Initiator |
Results, action |
Direct, blunt, emphatic |
No limit |
Direct, sustained |
Points, chops |
|
Builder |
Relationships, appreciation |
Animated, inflected |
Close, touching |
Varied |
Expressive |
|
Connector |
Others, team |
Quiet, thoughtful |
2 arms’ length |
Down, around |
Casual, soft |
|
Discoverer |
Accuracy, process |
Matter-of-fact, cynical |
Arm’s length |
Sides |
None |
When you have to speak to a large audience, you should observe how individuals are interacting before you begin. Are people in close groups, speaking enthusiastically? Are people sitting quietly, waiting for the presentation to begin? Are they checking their watches or responding to email? Do they seem in a hurry or more relaxed? Look at any materials they have in front of them: how are things organized? Are items spread around, or do you see neat stacks?
These observations can give you an idea of the communication styles of the individuals who are present. Adapt your presentation to fit the majority of the people in attendance by gently reflecting their choice of words, tone, proximity, eye contact, and gestures.
Here are some more suggestions to help you engage large groups of various communication styles:
· Present key information with specific points.
· Be direct about what you want them to do.
· Do activities to test their knowledge.
· Keep your energy level high and the pace moving to keep their attention.
· Recognize they may not answer your questions if their expertise is called into question.
· Express interest in their ideas and listen to them.
· Gently keep maintain control of your presentation when they begin to talk too much.
· Use personal examples and stories to keep their attention.
· Make precise points you want them to understand.
· Ask them to summarize for the group what they have learned after an activity.
· Draw them into a discussion or activity with questions.
· Provide examples and stories to help them make an application.
· Allow time for their questions.
· Express personal interest in them.
· Explain reasons why you are asking them to do something.
· Provide an agenda if possible.
· Be prepared for questions; be patient. Do not take personal offense!
· Be prepared with data and authorities to support your points.
· Provide step-by-step instructions for activities, procedures, or processes; written is best.
· Give them time to process new information.
Because many audiences consist of a mixture of styles, the challenge becomes to adapt your presentation accordingly. For example, the Initiator may want you to move too quickly, and you will need to make specific points for him or her. The Builder may want to talk about their ideas and experiences, so it is important to keep them on track. The Connectors are often very quiet or non-participative, so you will need to draw them in with questions and try to involve them in a productive way. Finally, the Discoverer may ask many questions, sometimes asking them as a way to make a point or draw attention to their own expertise. You will need to manage this type of questioning in order to stay in control of your presentation.
As you become more skilled at discerning and adapting to your audiences’ styles, you will become more effective at connecting with each group, increasing your rapport with your audiences, and providing information they need in a more meaningful way.
Of course no one sets out to intentionally offend or cause friction when they speak or communicate with large groups of people; and yet, everyone has a unique style of communication—which can differ dramatically from group to group. Because of our inherent style differences, there is a chance that we might unintentionally offend someone or create unnecessary conflict.
When speaking to large groups of people, it is important to recognize the interaction or communication style of others and then mirror or “match” that style when communicating with them. Your interaction will be more effective, you will increase engagement and create rapport, and you will be more likely to achieve desired results.
The challenge for any professional is for them to adapt their style to the style of their audience or to the person to whom they are speaking. The good news is that anyone can learn to do this. It gets easier with practice and, in time, will become second-nature.
