Introduction
Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson “The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Communicate Effectively with Each in a Business – and in Life’ is a book that focuses on studying human behavior through four personality types.
Here’s a summary of its key points:
The DISC Model: Erikson introduces the DISC model that divides individuals into four behavioral categories namely: (D)Ds, (I)Is, (S)Sts and (C)Cs. Every type is characterized in that it has a special trait and inclination for communication or decision-making.
The Dominant (D) Type: People who tend to dominate are always assertive, decisive, and focused on outcomes. The focused words are highlighted. They like to save time and reserve the rights for themselves thus, they are blunt and to the point. They also seem to be very expressive and they don’t mince their words. Through communicating with Dominant styles, Erikson recommends using to-the-point format and obvious reasoning with accent on the result.
The Influential (I) Type: The mentored people have the attributes of being outgoing and being passionate in what they are doing and socialize with others. Such type of dogs love being in the center of attentions and do very well with fellow other dogs. Erikson points out that when Influential types people are addressed, this should be done emotionally, with benefits & opportunities emphasized and with their opinions and ideas given space to come through.
The Steady (S) Type: Oftentimes, calm people serve as a good anchor in times of distress, proving support, trust, and teamwork. They much appreciate balance and serenity and work in such a manner that is not chaotic. Emotional expression in the intrapersonal stage becomes more sophisticated, as the child learns to distinguish feelings, recognize the meaning and consequences of these feelings, and manage and resolve emotional conflicts.
The Conscientious (C) Type: Persons with high levels of conscientiousness are likely to be rational, analytical, thorough and systematic. They have a unique way of how they set priorities and assume tasks that require precision, and ordering. He suggests that in communicating with Conscientious types, one should offer information in detail, will have to be mindful of their desire for specifications and accuracy and be patient enough to facilitate their information assimilation and processing.
Adapting Communication Styles: While Erikson maintains that understanding and dealing with the communication preferences of distinctive personalities is fundamental for establishment of interpersonal relationships, resolving conflicts and arriving to the joint decision. For example, people can learn to adjust their approach to communication taking into account the interests and motives of each personality type so that the message will be understood the way it is meant to be and will get at the bottom.
Practical Applications: The book is mapped up with various real instances and specific instructions on how one can fit the DISC principles in different occasions such as leadership, teamwork, sales and personal relations. He places self-awareness and empathy among the key ingredients that one needs to have to develop meaningful and productive connections with their fellow humans.
Summary
“Surrounded by Idiots” is about offering an in-depth view of intelligence behind human actions through the DISC framework. By learning about their likes, dislikes and particular motives people around them can improve their capacity for communication, build up the quality of their relationships and achieve what they want be it in private or work sphere.