The Joy in Business

15The Language of the Lands

• Q. How do you communicate with someone you find impossible to relate to?

  A. Answer: Learn the Language of the Lands.

Have you ever tried to speak with someone you could not relate to? You didn’t really understand where the person was coming from. It was as if he or she were from a different country, world, or planet. Have you ever said to yourself, “I just don’t understand this person” or “He is impossible to work with!”?

Well, you’re not alone! It is true that people can be very difficult to understand, to relate to, and to work with. Of course, being flexible and adaptable definitely helps. Learning the Language of the Lands helps even more. You may be aware that there are four distinct personality types. Numerous personality profiles are fascinating, fun, and intriguing to take because they help us understand ourselves and others better.

They also help us realize that people are different more than difficult. Once you gain an understanding of the differences based on personality, this awareness will make it much easier to connect with, relate to, and work with others. Granted, some personalities are completely off-the-charts, out-of-the box, and practically impossible to deal with, but for the most part, people fit into one of four classic personality types: Social, Factual, Helpful, and Driven.

They go by various other similar names depending on what personality profile you are accustomed to. Each type has a hot button and a language unto ...