Activity – The way we use language
Most failures in communications are failures or mismatches in our language preferences. How people use language is a function of what matters most to them and therefore what their attention goes to most often
Dr Kantor identified three distinct Communication Domains – Affect, Meaning and Power.
Communication Domains | Characteristics |
 | Use the language of nurturing and intimacy Are concerned with connection between people, particularly emotional connection Are concerned with others wellbeing Emphasise trust and motivation, warmth and caring |
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Seek understanding of the challenging questions posed in our world The language of ideas, theories and values Making sense of things Concerned with thinking, logic and a sense of purpose; “what we stand for” and how things work; exploring ideas and their theoretical underpinnings |
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Concerned with the freedom to decide what we want and our ability to achieve it Accountability, competence and completion; specific goals; highly conscious of time |
Exercise
Survey
We thought it might be interesting to get a feel for the profile of learners undertaking this course, by conducting a series of polls across the classes. All votes are anonymous, the aim is to build an understanding of the behaviours, preferences and characteristics of those in governance positions across Scotland’s public services.
SUGGESTION: If you are progressing through the course with colleagues, you can download this activity as a PDF document enabling you to share your thoughts and findings with others offline and assess your overall profile as a group. To download the activity as a PDF, simply click on the button at the top of the page.
Questions for Reflection
- What did you find? Did you have a strong preference for one Communication Domain or do you feel comfortable in more than one? How strong is your preference?
- What do you think is the predominant Communication Domain of your Board or Committee? What evidence leads you to that conclusion? Make a note of any examples that occur to you?
- What might be the consequences of your preferred Communication Domain and that of your Board/Organisation being the same, or different?
Kantor Behavioural Propensities Profile
Note: A more comprehensive and detailed understanding of your behavioural preferences can be obtained by completing the Kantor Behavioural Propensities Profile ©. Contact us for details – enquiries@policyhubscotland.co.uk
In the next video class, Margaret explores diversity in the Boardroom – focusing on the sources of difference that can emerge and how our tolerance for difference is often key to ensuring we can maintain equilibrium in the Boardroom.