Do you feel like you become a different version of yourself during the holidays?
The season of joy and connection can sometimes test your ability to navigate a mix of relatives with very lively opinions.
Whether you’re at work or home, understanding social styles can make your interactions smoother and might just keep the peace around the table.
Start by identifying your own style. Are you the one focused on results (“Just eat so we can open presents!”) or thinking ahead to come up with ten ways to improve next year’s gathering? Then, observe others—how do they communicate, what matters most to them, and how can you adjust to keep the vibe merry and bright?
Inspired by my coaching sessions, I’ve created a simple sheet that distils the complex world of social styles into four types.
At work, this approach can improve collaboration and understanding. At home, it can prevent holiday feuds before they start.
Be clear and direct with the Driver, bring the Expressive along for a laugh, show empathy to the Amiable, and give the Analytical their well-earned moment of precision (“Yes, you did calculate the oven timings perfectly!”).
By recognising these personality types, you’ll not only survive the holidays but also make them a little smoother—and maybe even more enjoyable.
Please get in touch if you would like the worksheet so you can check out your social style.
Happy holidays.
Based on the Social Styles Framework David Merrill and Roger Reid in the late 1960s as part of their work in organizational behaviour and interpersonal communications
Senior Vice President; Contact Center Director @ Hancock Whitney Bank
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