Scribd
Upload
23 views

Introduction To Purposive Communication

Communication introduction

Uploaded by

kenl80663
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
23 views

Introduction To Purposive Communication

Communication introduction

Uploaded by

kenl80663
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

1- COMMUNICATION STYLES IN VARIOUS MULTICULTURAL CONTEXTS

As mentioned in the previous lessons, each person has a unique style of communicating, which may depend not
only on his/her linguistic ability but also on his/her cultural and social context. Some are outspoken; some are
quieter yet on point. Some always seem formal, while some have a lot of introductions before getting to the main
point. Communication style refers to the choices people make and the strategies or tools they use in the process
of communication. A style may sometimes depend on the demands of the communicative situation, as well as
on the needs and requirements of the target recipients of the information.

Each style has two dimensions: the (1) assertiveness level and the (2) emotiveness level, which is shown in the
Communication Styles Matrix below.
The model, developed by Dr. Eileen M. Russo, shows four different communication styles (direct, spirited,
systematic and considerate), categorized further into two different dimensions (level of assertiveness and level
of expressiveness). All of these must be considered because people with different cultural contexts tend to have
varying levels and styles of communication.

People who are categorized within the assertive communication level tend to tell or instruct others what to do
and sometimes even how to do it, while the less assertive styles usually tend to be on the receiving end, often
asking for guidance, instructions or directions. On the other hand, people who fall under the expressive level
usually show their real feelings and emotions through facial expressions, tone of voice, or language use. The less
expressive ones tend to either hide their feelings or exert some effort for these feelings not to show.

The combination of these levels results to the basic communication styles:

Spirited = High Expressiveness + High Assertiveness


Considerate = High Expressiveness + Low Assertiveness
Direct = Low Expressiveness + High Assertiveness
Systematic = Low Expressiveness + Low Assertiveness

Tips for People with a Spirited Communication Style

1. Respect decisions and agenda that have been agreed upon, as well as time limits during meetings or any
communicative situation.
2. Try to limit your sharing of personal anecdotes that may take the discussion off-topic.
3. Make sure you are allowing others to contribute their ideas and suggestions – and that you are genuinely
listening to them.
4. Be certain that any request you make is clear and that you convey the reason for such request.
5. Communicate your appreciation for others’ work and input

Tips for People with a Considerate Communication Style

1. Recognize that other people’s opinions about a topic are separate from their opinions about you.
2. Realize that not everyone is comfortable discussing personal topics with colleagues.
3. Allow others to open personal matters before asking questions of that nature.
4. Respect your own opinion as you respect that of others’.
5. Recognize that you don’t have to be friends with everyone, but you should treat others – and be treated –
professionally.

Tips for People with a Direct Communication Style

1. Make an effort to listen carefully to others. Avoid interrupting.


2. Allow time for ‘chatting’ at the beginning of a meeting.
3. Recognize that others may also feel the need to express themselves.
4. Recognize that brainstorming can be effective and is not a waste of time.
5. Take some time to show your appreciation for others’ contributions.

Tips for People with a Systematic Communication Style

1. Recognize that for good working relationships, consideration for others’ feelings is important.
2. Learn to ask qualifying questions that will help you get the information you need.
3. Make sure you understand the background of the discussion or scope of the conversation, so no time is
wasted.
4. Politely ask other questions about themselves if you want to build rapport.
5. If you need to ask for more time to know, analyze or discuss something, explain the benefit of the information
you need to know.

You might also like