Communicating Beyond your Style

We often believe we’re being clear, after all, we know exactly what we mean, and you think that you are communicating beyond your style. But when it comes to team communication, what’s clear to you may be confusing to someone else. Why? Because we all listen, interpret, and respond through different filters. 

At Impact HR, we’ve seen it time and time again: communication breakdowns aren’t about what’s said, but how it’s received. And in leadership, that difference can make or break performance. 

Understanding the Filters 

Every person on your team comes with their own set of filters, shaped by personality, experience, culture, and even the pressures of their role. These filters shape how they process what you say: 

• Personality styles – Analytical minds might want data; expressive people respond to vision or feeling. 

• Cultural and generational differences – What’s considered respectful or clear can vary widely. 

• Stress levels – Under pressure, people may only absorb parts of a message. 

• Job role and perspective – A frontline team member may hear a very different message than a senior manager. 

Signs Your Message Isn’t Landing 

If you find yourself repeating instructions or getting blank stares during meetings, chances are your message isn’t connecting. Other signs include: 

• Passive “yes” responses, but little follow-through 

• Missed deadlines or confused outcomes 

• A sense that you’re “talking past each other” 

These aren’t signs of disengagement, they’re signs of misalignment. 

The Leadership Shift: Adapting How You Communicate 

To lead effectively, you must go beyond your preferred style and learn how to meet people where they are. Here’s how: 

• Vary your format – Use a mix of verbal, visual, and written communication to suit different preferences. 

• Slow down and check for understanding – Ask reflective questions like “What’s your takeaway from this?” 

• Create safety – Make it okay to ask for clarification without judgment. 

• Match your tone – Adapt your style to the context and person. Empathy goes a long way. 

Simple Tools to Make It Easier 

• Personality assessments like DiSC or MBTI help you understand team styles. 

• Weekly 1:1s give space for deeper, clearer communication. 

• Storytelling techniques make complex ideas easier to understand and remember. 

Real Communication Drives Real Results 

When your team feels seen, heard, and understood, they act with clarity and purpose. That’s not just good communication. That’s great leadership. 

Build Communication That Connects and Performs 

If you’d like support in navigating difficult conversations or support the business in developing communication skills, we are here to help. 

Because communication doesn’t stop at what you say, it starts with how your people hear it. Feel free to contact us or book a free 30-minute consultation using the link below. We’d be happy to support you and your team in communicating more clearly, effectively, and inclusively.