High assertiveness, low expressiveness

The Driver Communication Style

Drivers tend to be more assertive and less expressive. They are action people: direct, fast-paced, task-oriented, and focused on getting to an acceptable outcome quickly.

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Key points

Drivers like to get things done and are motivated by accomplishments.
They look for ways to complete tasks or projects quickly, accurately and on time.
They are known for confidently making quick decisions.
They prefer focusing on facts and usually prefer not to talk about personal feelings.
They tend to be organized and goal-oriented.
They often prefer to work alone.
They tend to act without seeking the advice or approval of others.
They alter course quickly when they feel it is necessary.
They speak authoritatively, use concrete terms, and avoid feeling words.
They tend to say it once and move on, assuming the other person understands.
They usually do not engage in chitchat when having work discussions.
They can be competitive and often assume the leadership position in groups.

In conversations

Be concise, factual and to the point.
Use logical, direct questions and responses.
Ask closed-ended questions to verify understanding or make a point.
Discourage questions when they prefer to offer an opinion, advice or directive.
Focus narrowly on the question or the perceived issue.
Control the pace and focus of the interaction.
Cut to the chase and sometimes interrupt to move the discussion along.
Be direct and sometimes considered blunt.
Speak quickly and emphatically, sometimes using downward gestures.
Use a wide vocal range with more force and volume.
Usually avoid stories or anecdotes.
Maintain eye contact longer than most people.

Things to watch out for

May overlook the feelings others have about an issue or decision.
May seek input less often than others would like.
May skip over details to get work completed.
May delegate without enough detail for the other person.
May become impatient with slower-paced people or people who socialize while working.
May take on too many commitments.
May become frustrated by delays or mistakes caused by others.

Adapting behaviours

Slow your pace.
Listen to the other person's responses more closely.
Listen for emotions as well as facts.
Be more personal in your delivery style.
Allow more room for questions and digressions.
Add feeling terms when dealing with more expressive styles.
Periodically summarize and repeat key points.
Involve the other person by asking more open-ended questions.
Verify the other person's understanding more frequently.
Be more patient with people who need to socialize before or during the conversation.

Adapting Drivers

Pay more attention to the feelings and needs of others than other Drivers.
Delegate less and prefer to see projects through to completion.
Give feedback, criticism or contrary opinions more diplomatically.
Show more patience with others.
Seek and value others' opinions more often.
Show more tolerance for people with a slower pace or different work preferences.
Pay more attention to details and make slower fact-based decisions.
Are more realistic about deadlines and the steps needed to meet them.