Abstract
Human Behavior is rather complex and dynamic. Psychologists and behaviorists have, over the years, research different aspects of behavior and attitudinal patterns. Some concluded similar findings while the others discovered unknown mesmerizing traits. Nonetheless, an individual rarely displays one style of behavior at all times. Therefore, it is not easy to associate a definite behavioral style with an individual. One behavioral approach may be predominant in his attitude. However, the style varies according to time and circumstances. Behavior is influenced by many external and internal factors.
As part of a team, an individual’s behavior is affected by the role he assumes and the responsibility he shoulders as well as the attitudes of his colleagues. He adopts a behavioral style and retains it as long as the team works together. Consequently, his written, verbal and non-verbal communication gets adapted to his behavioral approach. The messages he receives are interpreted by him accordingly and the messages he sends are construed by the recipient according to his style of behavior.
Different Styles of Behavior
A dominant or a pioneer-style is usually assumed by those team members who behave more as leaders and take initiative in proposing or pursuing an idea. An impressor tries to be in the supervisor’s good books and is more like a sycophant. An adventurer is a risk-taker and a speculator. He looks primarily at the advantages of undertaking a project or a business venture and makes contingency plans for overcoming anticipated disasters. A go-getter is an enthusiast and has an out-going personality. He is more likely to be successful than his colleagues. A director is sterner and very demanding of his teammates.
Behavioral Styles and Elements of Communication
The study of human behavior is rather challenging because behavior is complexly dynamic. The styles of attitudes and approaches towards behavior are influenced by several factors such as the environment, society, culture, religious affiliations, education, and family traditions and background. As circumstances vary, an individual assumes a behavioral style accordingly. It is likely that an individual takes on two or more behavioral styles at the same time or takes up a hybrid style which is a combination of two or more styles.
The versatility in behavioral styles is growing with the fast-moving world. Individuals assume various roles, interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures and are required to work as members of cross-functional teams in organizations. Today, as increasing emphasis is placed on employee empowerment and “organizational effectiveness”, the concept of working in teams is on the rise. As the “more we try to work as a team, the more important it becomes to recognize that people exhibit different behavioral styles” (Chaneski, 2006).
The individuals possessing different styles of behavior portray certain characteristics associated with their particular styles. However, it is unlikely that “that all people of a particular behavioral style exhibit all of the characteristics portrayed” (Chaneski, 2006). These characteristics as well as the elements of communication mutually impact each other. According to Wenger (1984), “Communication has seven elements: source, message, receiver, channel, effect, feeback and evaluation” (p. 1215). The source is the sender; the channel is the medium through which communication is carried out; effect includes the reaction of the recipient; feedback is the response from the recipient when he assumes the role of the sender; evaluation is the analysis concerning whether the message was received effectively (Wenger 1984).
Each individual would deliver a message in his style. Whether the message is received precisely is determined by the behavioral attitude of the intended audience and the medium used. Therefore, members of a team are ethically bound to use the right medium, appropriate words, and a softer tone when communicating with colleagues particularly in the case of foreign teammates and non-verbal communication. Cultural diversity within organizations is enhancing with overseas employment. “A Greek may see a contract as a formal statement announcing the intention to build a business… An Arab may be insulted by merely mentioning a contract” (Guffey 2006). Besides, a person possessing a director’s behavioral style may use a slightly harsh tone when writing a letter. As his real attitude can only be judged by non-verbal cues, a first-time recipient of his message may draw a negative connotation from it.
Conclusion
As personalities differ, so do behavioral styles. Some managers may be more demanding and stern while others would be more helpful and behave like leaders and role models. These varying attitudes have an impact on and at the same time, are affected by communication with colleagues. Differences in cultural and social diversity and the chances of wrong interpretation must be kept in mind when delivering a message.
References
Chaneskiki , Wayne i (2006). Find Articles – Understanding the Four Major Behavioral Styles.
Guffey, Mary Ellen (2006). Business Communication: Process and Product, 5th Edition. Mason: Thomson South-Western.
Wenger, Karl (1984). Forestry Handbook, 2nd Edition. New York: Wiley-IEEE.