Four Communication Styles in the Workplace
Written by:
East Carolina University®
• Dec 5, 2024
The state of the workforce is in flux. The increase in remote and hybrid work has created new, still-evolving workplace dynamics. In some cases, these shifts have had negative impacts on how people communicate in the workplace. In Grammarly’s 2023 “State of Business Communication” report, polled business leaders noted a 15% drop in productivity and a 7% increase in stress caused by poor work communication.
This data underlines the importance of solid workplace communication. There are several communication styles in the workplace that shape how information is conveyed. For those interested in applying a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree to the business world, understanding these styles and how leaders can implement them allows these professionals to apply their psychology skills to guide employees toward specific goals.
What Are the Common Communication Styles in the Workplace?
Workplace communication can be typically separated into four distinct styles. Each manifests in different ways and requires different responses to maintain communication effectiveness.
Passive Communication
Passive communicators usually don’t speak up much and are typically nonconfrontational. They tend to convey their thoughts and feelings through nonverbal cues, which can be open to misinterpretation. In some cases, they may go out of their way to avoid potential conflict and have difficulty saying no.
Effectively interacting with passive communicators requires creating an approachable, pressure-free dynamic in one-on-one situations and inclusivity in group situations. This environment can impart a sense of comfort and belonging that allows passive communicators to open up and be more assertive.
Aggressive Communication
Aggressive communicators tend to use blunt, occasionally confrontational language that can disrupt team dynamics. In extreme situations, they may also use insults or personal attacks against co-workers. Aggressive nonverbal cues, such as glaring stares, can come across as intimidating. This form of communication can foster tension in work teams and make colleagues feel uncomfortable.
For managers, the best way to handle aggressive communication is to remain calm and establish clear boundaries that facilitate respect. If an employee escalates aggressive communication and crosses the line into inappropriate language or harassment, it’s important to get human resources involved.
Passive-Aggressive Communication
Passive-aggressive communicators use written, verbal, and nonverbal cues that may hint at meanings counter to their explicit statements. This form of communication can arise from someone not feeling comfortable sharing their true feelings, so they resort to tactics that attempt to convey their intent. Examples include sarcastic language, contradictory gestures, and email phrases like “per my last message.” Age can also determine what constitutes passive-aggressive communication in the workplace. Ellipses in text messages, for instance, can appear passive-aggressive to Generation Z workers.
Strategic management of this style of communication can involve phrases and actions that seek clarification when the intent is ambiguous. It can also involve strategic encouragement of direct communication, such as letting the communicator know that open, direct dialogue and expression are always appreciated and preferred over indirect language which could cause miscommunication.
Assertive Communication
Those who use assertive communication use language to advocate for their ideas without resorting to aggressive language or passive behaviors. Their verbal and nonverbal forms of communication tend to convey straightforward messages imbued with a sense of confidence, respect, and ownership of the situation.
When dealing with assertive communicators, managers should use direct responses that convey respect. It can also be vital to provide them with honest feedback, as they are likely to be receptive.
Why Does Understanding Communication Styles in the Workplace Matter?
Understanding different communication styles in the workplace—and more importantly, how to respond to them—can be fundamental to building a cohesive workforce, and improved communication offers a range of benefits.
Positive communication boosts employee engagement. Establishing a solid communication strategy can foster trusted relationships with co-workers. This foundation can also cultivate stronger teamwork and improve productivity.
Clear communication can also produce a sense of mutual respect among co-workers, including an appreciation for others’ differences, beliefs, and cultures. This situation can lead to fewer workplace conflicts and increased harmony.
How a Psychology Degree Can Help
Those who study psychology can apply their understanding of human behavior to improve workplace communication. Psychology coursework includes topics covering professionalism in communication, managing high-stress situations, and the dynamics of human behaviors and the social environment. Understanding the behaviors and personality traits behind different communication styles can help individuals navigate group dynamics in workplace environments.
This ability is valued in the business world, which is why there is such a wide range of jobs for those with a psychology degree in fields outside therapy and counseling.
Get Ready To Make a Difference
When an individual knows how to handle various communication styles in the workplace, they can foster a positive environment free from conflict and personnel issues.
The Online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program at East Carolina University®️ can help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a profound impact on an organization. Our fully online program focuses on the relationship between business and behaviors, allowing you to identify workplace conflicts and develop strategies to mitigate communication problems. Learn how we can help prepare you to make a difference on a professional level.
Recommended Readings:
What Is Organizational Psychology?
Sources:
Asana, “12 Tips for Effective Communication in the Workplace”
Asana, “The 4 Communication Styles Every Manager Should Know”
Grammarly, The Path to Productivity, Performance, and Profit: 2023 State of Business Communication
MSN, “What Is ‘Boomer Ellipses’ in Texting: Why Gen Z Finds Them Confusing”
Verywell Mind, “Understanding the 4 Communication Styles in the Workplace”
