Each person responds differently to stress, each communication style responds in their own unique way. Today we will look at how the Dominant and Influencing Communicators respond to stress. There are some common trends though so let’s see which on you relate most too. This is helpful for you to know because whether you acknowledge it or not, the people around you will notice a change in you when your stress levels rise.
The Powerful and Direct Communicator can already comes across as task oriented, blunt, driven, even bossy. When stressed they will become even more driven, blunt, decisive, quick thinking and moving. They will exert even more “control” as their world spins out of control. They may come across as aggressive which can be quite negative in a workplace. So if you work with someone like this, your world can get quite difficult when they become stressed.
It is really important not to take their behaviour personally. Be courageous and ask them if they are ok. Yes, even these guys need support and would appreciate you asking. They often have no idea how they come across and don’t understand why their team mates are backing away slowly when they enter the room! If this is you, you need to acknowledge the stress and then ensure you have helpful strategies to address it. Things such as exercise will help to burn or your excess adrenaline and allow you to think and gain some calm.
The Playful and Influencing Communicator comes across as, people oriented, the life of the party, they are talkative, fun, colourful and optimistic. When they become stressed they will talk even more, be even more loud and flighty (if that’s possible). It may be hard to keep up with them it may seem like they are on something! Eventually they may become quite short and may even snap which is completely out of character for them. This can damage work relationships, as they are usually so friendly and willing to chat.
Again, don’t take their behavior personally, ask them if they are ok, and if they need any support. The “Playful and Influencing” communicator likes to be included in all interactions but if they are either talking too much or becoming snappy they will begin to be shut out; this is like torture for them. If this is you, take the time to work out what may be causing the stress for you. Get a plan and get your stress under control. Things such as socialising are really important for you when you are feeling stress.
Next time we will look at how the Patient and Steady Communicator and Perfectionist and Conscientious Communicators respond to stress. Please share this information with friends and loved ones so that all of us can dial back the stress and begin to enjoy life more.
Until next time, Care, Connect and be a Courageous Communicator. Let’s change the world we live in one conversation at a time.
