Let Them Talk

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We all know them. They’re the ones that make themselves be heard by the volume of their voice or by the sheer amount of talking they do. A true leader knows how to get into their brains and influence them by playing to the following characteristics and habits that are typical of Expressive people:

1. They talk a lot - The actual word “expressive” gives you an idea of what they are like. They like to talk. Sometimes, in fact, they don’t know about the appropriateness of what they’re expressing, so they talk some more. As a leader you need to make people comfortable, so let these people talk. They’ll trust you more because of it.

2. They focus on emotions - I don’t know why this is true. All I know is that you can’t count on presenting too much facts to them when trying to influence them. Appeal to emotions. Expressives will register them much better than details, and if you make them like what they feel (emotions, of course), you’ll be a better leader to them.

3. They focus on images - This is sort of an extension of #3,but now I’m talking about method. One of the most effective, and practical, ways of creating emotions is through storytelling. Stories are, if well told, full of crisp and rich images that can be played in the minds of an expressive people. Take advantage of that and become an avid storyteller when trying to influence them.

4. They look for popularity and recognition - Frequently, perhaps subconsciously, they actively seek popularity. So, if you’re results-oriented and care more about seeing your vision as a leader fulfilled than getting recognized in the short term, then grant it to them. Make that person feel like the answer came out of them, so they can rejoice in their newly increased popularity.

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  1. 12th Edition of Carnival of Leadership Growth « The Organic Leadership Blog wrote:

    […] Rios presents Let Them Talk posted at artofleading.net, saying, “How to influence and deal with Expressive […]

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