True human connection is something that robots and machines cannot replace. In our world of increasing technology, connection is more important than ever. Connection requires clarity, communication and courage. Improving your ability to communicate through understanding the “dots” communication methodology is a guaranteed hack to help you with developing effective connection.
It’s about developing an ability to communicate to connect!
Dots have been proven to improve communication (at work and home), relationships, work place dynamics, and productivity.
So – what is this “dots” methodology?
Do you have the ability to develop a rapport with anyone? Are you getting the best from your team? Enjoy engaging people? Creating opportunities? Are you being your best self? Have you experienced the contented buzz of a dynamic team truly making a difference?
Truly effective communication is about having an awareness of yourself and others. It’s getting the best out of not only yourself but all of the people around you.
Precognitive Communication also known as the amazing “dots” tool was created by New Zealand research journalist David Dickson. He spent over 25 years researching personality profiling systems and communication models from around the world. In true antipodean style he distilled the nuts and bolts from the fluff and developed this simple yet meaningful communication tool called “dots”.
You can’t have just one natural communication style (or “dot”) – you are a combination of all 4 styles. It’s dangerous & unhelpful to believe that you are just one dot. It’s not possible. You are a combination of dots and the purpose of understanding your combination is so that you are able to communicate more effectively.
The “dots” tool is quickly learnt, understood and able to be practically applied after a few short hours. That’s the magic – it sticks & it’s practical.
Quick taste of “dots”
Purple – love big ideas, talkers & interested in the overall picture. Have a lot of tasks on the go at one time. They are listening for the “what” in any communication. You’ll hear them use the words “I know”.
Yellow – create pictures in their minds, require details & are very tidy. Time is important to them – they won’t be late for any meeting. They listen for the “when” in any communication. You’ll hear them use the words “I see”.
Red – require facts, are efficient and economical with time. No nonsense – they tend to just want to get on with the task. They listen for the “where” they fit in any communication. The relevance of the communication to them. You’ll hear them use the words “I think” or “I understand.”
Blue – need to get a feel for the task at hand. They care about others and need a good reason before they’ll do anything. They are listening for the “why” in any communication. You’ll hear them use the words “I feel”.
Your “dot” combination is not right or wrong – it’s simply the way that you roll. Imagine understanding your natural strengths and the natural strengths of your team or committee members and being able to play to them. Rocket science it is not! It just a powerfully effective NZ made tool that is creating a stir in Australia.
In the meantime – here are seven fundamentals for communicating effectively:-
1. Awareness of self. Do you understand how you need to be communicated with? Do you prefer to chat? Brainstorm? Email? Find out facts? How do you prefer information to be delivered? How do you process information? What is your “dot” combination?
2. No one is like you. Sure there are people out there with a similar communication style – but there is not one other human being on this planet who is exactly like you or ever will be. Nor should there. Accept this fact.
3. Be gentle on yourself and on others. Most people are genuinely doing the best they can with the knowledge they have. Expecting more only causes you stress! Give yourself time to develop the skill of effective communication and also give others the chance to develop.
4. Question. Ask people how they prefer to be communicated with? Sounds simple and maybe even confronting – but it’s an often simple overlooked technique . “I know (or see, think or feel) you’re busy right now – but in order to work together effectively – how would you like me to share information with you?” You could even email this question if that feels more comfortable.
5. Listen unconditionally. (Particularly those of you who are strong in purple) Genuinely listen. Hear what the other person is saying. Don’t listen simply for a gap or hook so that you can talk. Give them time. Listen without judgement or expectation.
6. Identify their combination of “dots”. Or even simply identify their predominant “dot”. Do they process by talking? Building pictures? Requiring facts? Or getting a feel for what your asking? This is easily done by observing what they do and listening to what they say.
7. Plonker allowance. It is inevitable that there are plonkers in your life. These are people who choose to behave badly (some are completely unaware of their own “plonkerness”). Regardless of how effectively you are communicating or even how kind you are being there will always be someone who tests your patience and your kindness. It’s nothing to do with what dot or combination of dots they are. They are being a plonker. Don’t let them upset you nor trick you into believing that “Everyone is like that” or that “all purple dots are annoying..” Or “all yellow dots are fussy”, Or “all red dots are mean…” Or “all blue dots are soft”.
“Dots” is an incredibly fun practical experience for anyone – conferences, businesses, organisations, schools communities and families. An experience guaranteed to provide less stress, greater productivity, increased sales & better workplace dynamics. Want to learn more – then touch base with Amy Scott today.