Conversation with a colleague spooking you?

Are there times when you can feel that speaking to a coworker is painful for them—or even for you? Maybe the other person's communication style is just hard for you: way too slowly ...or maybe they're so fast-paced and loud that you find yourself cringing inside and needing recovery time after the conversation.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve listened to smart, successful people vent their frustrations. Not about loud chewing, nail clipping, or those infamous smelly leftovers—but about the challenge of talking to coworkers. Can you relate?

“Talking?” Yes, sometimes that’s the real challenge.

Our natural communication styles are, well, natural—to each of us. But what happens when we have to collaborate or converse with someone whose style is the polar opposite?

At The Communication Gym, we introduce people to DISC styles, so you can:

• Become aware of different communication styles
• Practice new skills in order to meet people where they are

You can begin this practice today!

Start by simply paying attention:

• Observe colleagues’ body language
• Listen for their volume and pace
• Are they leaning in or out?
• Do they sound like they’re yelling—or so quiet you can barely hear?
• Are they speaking so quickly you can’t follow, or so slowly you lose interest?
• Is their body animated or still?

Awareness of differences is your first step to bridging the gap in your communication styles.

Once you’ve noticed the qualities in others, stand in front of a mirror at home. Pretend you are speaking to that person and include the traits you observed:

• Talk louder or softer to adjust your volume
• Increase or decrease your rate of speech
• Add large gestures—or remain completely still

This will feel awkward at first! But the more you do it, the more comfortable you’ll become—and you’ll be able to naturally shift your style to build the bridge between you and your coworker.

If you’re looking to practice with others under the guidance of a coach, join one of our Professional Practice Groups. Read more here.

See YOU @ The Gym!