Communicating Effectively in the Workforce

Chapter 4Styles of Communication

Learning objectives

• Compare four approaches to communicator style:
  • Norton’s nine communication variables
  • Passive, assertive, aggressive communication
  • Blanchard’s leadership styles of communication
  • Alessandra and Hunsaker’s styles of communication model
• Determine your communicator style.

Communicator style: Three approaches

“That’s not my style,” said the manager, referring to two differing ways to communicate the same message. This manager preferred face-to-face conversations over sending emails.

“He or she is a real bully,” said an angry employee, referring to the tendency of a co-worker in the office to dominate, threaten, and run over people.

Even corporations have different styles. One computer firm has what one of its vice presidents called a “terse, blunt, almost rude style.” The executives, he said, had no time to play around.

Communicator “style” is an intriguing dimension of business communication. The concept has drawn the attention of countless experts and commentators. “Style” is quite complex.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Many of us are familiar with this quotation and may agree with it, too. The quotation makes two points. First, beauty is an assessment made by the one who perceives the object or activity. Second, a variety of objects and activities may be perceived as beautiful.

Now apply the same line of thinking to communication. We are not the best judge of our communication competence. Communication competence ...