DON’T STOP AT THE VIDEO … KEEP READING FOR TIPS.

Meet Jeff. Jeff is liked by his coworkers and is a really friendly guy. He’s the type of person who stops by his coworker’s cubicles, on his way to the breakroom, just to ask if they’d like a cup of coffee. The team really depends on him because he seems to make sure meetings, deadlines, etc. aren’t forgotten. In meetings he is pretty agreeable (except when he takes his frustrations “off-line” and vents to people in other departments). If you asked those who work with Jeff what they appreciate about him, they would say that he is always willing to jump in and help out anytime someone asks. He rarely says no.

What does the word “amiable” even mean? Merriam Webster offers two definitions:

1) friendly, sociable, congenial

2) generally agreeable

These are pretty accurate descriptions for defining Amiable communication style. But how can a person tell if someone is an Amiable communicator?

There are two tell-tale signs – less assertiveness and more responsiveness.  Amiables typically prefer to be part of a group, not leading the group. Here are some behaviors to watch for:

Amiable People Style
Now, keep in mind – not all Amiables are created the same, so be careful of stereotyping. If you think you know someone who is an Amiable communicator, use these tips to improve your interactions.

5 Ways to Communicate Better with Amiables

  1. Slow your roll! Don’t talk too fast or too loud. Chill a little.
  2. Chit chat. Get to know them a little before launching into work stuff.
  3. Tap into your kind self. Listen and speak with empathy.
  4. Zip it. Not forever, just pause so they have an opportunity to speak.
  5. Be a human being. Consider the impact decisions have on people.

NOTE: I have only included a snippet of the assertiveness and responsiveness behaviors of an Amiable and what can be done to communicate better with a person of this style.  To use this model effectively I recommend any of the following: