Short-tempered, a little bit choleric, says frankly what he thinks, is annoyed with odds and ends and seems not to give a lot about other people’s advice or opinion: Since many years Homer Simpson enthuses people of any age. But if you meet a Homer-liker communication partner in your working life, enthusiasm decreases immediately. We say: Also with a Homer Simpson effective communication is possible. Give it a try in the following week.

The DiSC communication model separates people in four different communication types: steady, influent, conscientious and dominant. Meeting any of these types in order to have a successful conversation can be tricky. However, it’s the dominant partner we memorize the most. But why?

Dominant partners

Communicate straight and to the point – might be considered as impolite
Speak directly and candidly – might be considered as too honest
Focus on solutions rather than on problems
And well, being short-tempered….that sometimes comes along. 😉

Homer Simpson is the funny personification of this dominant communication type. In reality the dominant partners might be no fun at all! But also with them effective communication is possible. So look for your personal Homer Simpson and try to have an effective communication at eye level with him or her. The following 10 tips will help you.

10 tips for effective communication with dominant partners

DO’s

1. Focus on results.
2. Be brief and to the point.
3. Exhibit confidence.
4. Expect them to be blunt.
5. Don´t overreact to their statements.
6. Show them respect.
7. Look them in the eye and speak up.

DONT’s

8. Don‘t ramble and avoid „chit chat“.
9. Don‘t challenge them, you will lose!
10. Don‘t offer assurance you cannot deliver.

And after the conversation we are keen to hear about your experience.

Good luck with Homer Simpson!

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#MondayLead: Cope with Homer Simpson – 10 tips for effective communication with dominant counterparts

10 tips for effective communication with dominant partners