Do you ever think about how your brain processes verbal and nonverbal communication? Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) was created by Richard Bandler and John Grindler in the 1970s as an approach to managing human behavior. They believed that it is possible to identify thought and behaviors patterns in successful people and then teach them to others It involves tuning into and reading observable signals in the way people communicate to each other. Based on these signals, you can create an appropriate response that establishes rapport quickly.

NLP proposes that each of us fits into one of three major patterns or styles of communication. The three possible styles are: visual (what we see), auditory (what we hear) and kinesthetic (what we feel).

Visual people “see” the world.  They make sense of it through pictures.  Their words and phrases convey visual images.  They don’t think a lot about the words they use.  They capture images and they program their minds to rewind, edit, or fast-forward the video.  Over half of all people fit this description.

Auditory people “hear” the world.  They experience it through sound.  They hear their internal dialogue first before they speak out loud.  Words are very important to auditory people; they select them thoughtfully and listen to you carefully.  Auditory people need to talk things out at length to get their thoughts in order. Over one-third of all people fit this description.

Kinesthetic people “feel” the world.  They make sense of it through tactile and emotional data.  They look for harmony in your words, vocals, and body language.  Everything you do or say, as well as everything you do not do or say tells them if they should believe you.  Less than one-fourth of the people you encounter fit this description.

When you are able to identify how other people experience the world you will be better able to communicate with them in the way they understand. This will improve your relationships with others and in turn help you achieve your goals in business and in life.

I will be speaking for the Presence Summit, a virtual event, at 9:15 AM on July 15^th. The topic of discussion is – What Type of Communicator Are You? The Presence Summit is a full day of stimulating presentations and workshops to help you AMPLIFY and SHARE your value using video communications. Click Here to find out more.