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Interaction Styles
Check out this new model by Linda Berens, Ph.D. founder of Temperament Research Institute.
The Interaction Styles model describes 4 patterns of communicating when interacting with others.
The beauty of this model is that it is easy to introduce, easily understood and explains the typical ways that we communicate when trying to influence others or get things done. *I’ve used this successfully with teams* to clear up misunderstandings and frustrations with how others approach communication. It’s non-threatening and does not have that feared “touchy-feely” component that some clients are wary of.
The four style patterns are In-Charge, Get-Things-Going, Behind-the-Scenes, and Chart-the-Course. Right off the bat you probably relate to one more than others. And certainly know which one you aren’t. There is much more to learn beyond the styles monikers.
When determining your Interaction Style you explore which side of three dimensions you prefer. We may do both, but one aspect is more a default position, the other learned.
Directing/Informing: Do you commonly tell, urge, or direct others to take action? Are you focused on getting results and the timeframe you have? OR Do you ask about their views and/or provide information so they can make a choice based on the options? Are you interested in people and their being motivated to do whatever it is?
Initiating/Responding: Do you begin the conversation, bring up the topic, introduce yourself to people? OR do you decide if you want to interact with some who approaches you? Are you content to wait for someone to seek your input?
Control/Movement
Some styles are focused in controlling the result, getting it done in a timely fashion. Others are content as long as progress is being made to the end goal.
Discovering the strengths and limitations of your style can clear up confusion around why your automatic approach used with the best of intentions sometimes backfires. You’ll learn why others’ feathers are ruffled. You can also learn different approaches that will increase your chances of success with the other 3 styles.
Interaction Styles is a perfect companion piece and an added dimension to understanding yourself through the Myers-Briggs 16 types, such as ESTJ, INFP, ESFP, ENTJ, etc. Four of the 16 possible types fit into each of the Styles. I won’t give away the answer. Better to discover your fit first. You can introduce this model without ever referring to Myers-Briggs. It stands alone quite well.
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