There are many models to describe them, but there are basically four kinds of communication style. There are lots of tests you could take to put yourself into a category, but the majority of us lapse into one style or other depending on the situation, and who we are talking to. The trick is to analyse the pros and cons of each style, and then realise what steps can be taken to make that style more effective. Here's a rundown of the four kinds of communicators, and ways you can address them, whether they work with you, or if it IS you!

The Focuser

The focuser is an efficient communicator - almost like bullet points in verbal form. In fact, 'getting to the point' could be described as their communication style in a nutshell. The advantage to this is that the focuser is direct, without any 'fluff', and is concise. If you want information pared down to the bare minimum, then this is a great way to communicate - especially if time is at a premium.

The negative attributes of the focused style of communication is that they sometimes don't let other people enter into the fray, often blast ahead (sometimes being tactless) on their own conversation, and also - their focus leads to not being sensitive or receptive (for example, not actively listening or wanting feedback) from others in the group. If this is you, try to go more with the 'flow' of conversation - by all means, keep it fast paced, but don't bulldoze people down with your words. Conversation is a two way street!

The Creator

The creator is, obviously, creative... and this doesn't just mean that they talk about new idea. A creator in conversation will generally be the positive, bubbly, 'involved' person in a conversation - generally, people like talking to them! They are energetic and always seem to want to talk. This is great, and depending on the role, can be an asset to any company.

However, the positive points of the creator can turn into negatives if used too much in communication. It's great if someone loves to talk, but what if they never stop? We all know the person who is "chatty" in the office - and before you know it, you've gossiped an hour away. It's also sometimes hard to get a creator to be succinct and precise about what they are trying to say. They're not detail people. A good way of dealing with a creator (or stopping being the negative side of one yourself) is to establish rules about the amount of time spent discussing a point, such as during a meeting. Eliminate 'waffle', and the creator can be a great thing.

The Supporter

Supporters are often overlooked because they tend to be on the quiet side. They are the friendly, supportive (of course) person nodding in agreement at everything you say. Their passive communication style lends itself to excellent skills at listening and digesting information.

This, of course, can have its downside too - often the pacifiers and peace-makers of the office; they would rather not voice their opinion rather than upset anyone. They are tolerant to a fault... often hiding what they truly think in order to 'go with the flow', communicatively. Try to bring the supporter more out of their shell, and encourage them to voice their opinion. Since they are such good listeners and absorbers, they probably have something of careful construction and quality to say.

The Detailer

If you want someone to follow instructions to the letter, to deconstruct discussions and find the flaws or positive loopholes, then the detailer is your man or woman. Often good at strategy and planning, they notice the little things that can cause a project or piece of work to go off-track.