The Communication Compass Quiz

INSTRUCTIONS

For each question, choose the option that resonates with you the most.

At the end of the quiz, tally your scores to find out your dominant communication style. You might find that two styles are tied, which is totally fine and completely normal. You may find that you score heavily on one style and light on another. That is also fine and normal! There’s no good or bad or right or wrong.

The results point to your communication truth, helping you develop self-awareness and self-compassion. The results also provide a map by which you will cultivate social-awareness, demystify your colleagues (and friends/family), foster understanding, build empathy, and develop stronger relationships.

So, avast me hearties, onward to communication exploration!

QUIZ

Name

1. When faced with a challenge, I tend to:

A) Take charge and come up with a solution.

L) Analyze the situation thoroughly before acting.

S) Offer support and help others feel at ease.

I) Generate creative ideas to overcome it.

C) Find consensus among group members.

2. In a group setting, I prefer to:

A) Lead the discussion and set the direction.

L) Provide data and facts to inform decisions.

S) Ensure everyone feels included and valued.

I) Inspire the group with a vision or big idea.

C) Encourage everyone to share their perspectives.

3. When new ideas are proposed by others:

A) I evaluate them critically before expressing any opinion.

L) I’m open to them and often seek to integrate them into the existing framework.

S) I listen and encourage others to elaborate, aiming for a deeper understanding.

I) I get excited and start brainstorming how they can be implemented creatively.

C) I weigh their potential impact on the team as a whole before responding.

4. When communicating with others, I tend to:

A) Be direct and straightforward.

L) Focus on facts and logical reasoning.

S) Show understanding and compassion.

I) Use storytelling and inspiration.

C) Seek input and facilitate discussion.

5. When evaluating team performance, I look for:

A) Strong results and the ability to meet targets.

L) Detailed analysis of processes and outcomes.

S) Team cohesion and individual satisfaction.

I) Creativity and engagement levels during projects.

C) A combination of outcomes, teamwork, and how well different perspectives were integrated into solutions.

6. In a stressful situation, I typically:

A) Take charge and try to control the outcome.

L) Analyze the details to find a logical solution.

S) Reach out to others for emotional support.

I) Think outside the box for creative solutions.

C) Field the team to find a solution that works for everyone.

7. When I receive feedback, I prefer it to be:

A) Straightforward and direct, focusing on results.

L) Detailed and supported by evidence or data.

S) Delivered with empathy and understanding.

I) Encouraging and highlighting my creative contributions.

C) Constructive and aimed at enhancing teamwork.

8. When making decisions, I usually:

A) Trust my instincts and make quick decisions.

L) Gather all relevant information before choosing.

S) Consider how the decision affects everyone involved.

I) Think creatively about all possible options.

C) Discuss with others to ensure a group consensus.

9. I thrive in environments that are:

A) Fast-paced and goal-oriented.

L) Structured and organized.

S) Supportive and inclusive.

I) Innovative and open to new ideas.

C) Cooperative and team-focused.

10. When discussing team goals, I focus on:

A) Setting ambitious targets and driving the team to achieve them.

L) Ensuring clarity and feasibility of the goals.

S) Making sure that the goals reflect the team’s collective values and aspirations.

I) Inspiring the team with a vision that is exciting and engaging.

C) Aligning everyone’s input to create a shared understanding and commitment to the goals.

11. My ideal role in a project is:

A) The leader who drives the vision and objectives.

L) The strategist who develops detailed plans.

S) The mediator who ensures everyone is heard.

I) The innovator who brings new ideas to the table.

C) The facilitator who coordinates team efforts.

12. I prefer to resolve conflicts by:

A) Addressing the issue head-on and asserting my viewpoint.

L) Analyzing the situation to find a rational solution.

S) Focusing on maintaining harmony and understanding.

I) Exploring creative solutions that benefit everyone.

C) Collaborating with all parties to find common ground.

13. My colleagues come to me for advice about:

A) Making tough decisions and taking charge of situations.

L) Analyzing a problem to understand it better.

S) Navigating personal relationships and emotional issues.

I) Brainstorming new ideas and thinking outside the box.

C) Team dynamics and working effectively with others.

14. I feel most energized when:

A) I’m leading a team toward a goal.

L) I’m solving a complex problem.

S) I’m helping others and fostering connections.

I) I’m brainstorming or creating something new.

C) I’m working collaboratively on a project.

15. When I think about future projects, I prioritize:

A) Results-driven goals that demonstrate clear success.

L) Planning and research to ensure success.

S) Collaboration and input from everyone involved.

I) Creativity and enthusiasm to keep the team motivated.

C) Integrating diverse ideas to create innovative and inclusive project plans.

16. In a discussion, I tend to focus on:

A) Leading the conversation and guiding the topic.

L) Analyzing the arguments presented with logic.

S) Ensuring everyone has a chance to express their views.

I) Inspiring others with creative ideas and solutions.

C) Building on others’ ideas to create a comprehensive plan.

17. My approach to learning new skills is:

A) Jumping in and taking charge of my own learning.

L) Researching and understanding all the details first.

S) Seeking guidance from others and collaborating.

I) Finding innovative ways to learn and apply new concepts.

C) Joining groups or teams to learn from collective experiences.

18. When I encounter a disagreement, my first instinct is to:

A) Assert my opinion confidently and defend it.

L) Analyze the arguments to find logical flaws.

S) Seek to understand all perspectives and mediate.

I) Propose creative solutions that address the issue.

C) Facilitate a discussion to explore everyone's views.

19. In a team project, I’m often the one who:

A) Takes charge and ensures we stay on track.

L) Provides data and insights to guide our direction.

S) Checks in with team members to maintain morale.

I) Brainstorms innovative ideas for the project.

C) Mediates discussions and incorporates everyone’s input.

20. When brainstorming, I prefer to:

A) Take charge and set the direction for the discussion.

L) Analyze the feasibility of ideas before diving in.

S) Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and build on each other’s ideas.

I) Explore all possibilities and think outside the box.

C) Facilitate the conversation to ensure all voices are heard, aiming for a consensus.

21. The key to effective teamwork is:

A) Clear leadership and direction to guide the team.

L) Strong Logical skills to assess team performance and adjust strategies.

S) Building trust and ensuring everyone feels valued and included.

I) Maintaining a fun and dynamic atmosphere that encourages creativity.

C) Encouraging collaboration and integrating diverse ideas to foster innovation.

22. My feeling about sharing credit for team achievements:

A) I believe that leaders should be recognized for their guidance.

L) I think it’s important to acknowledge individual contributions based on performance

S) I feel that sharing credit strengthens team relationships and morale.

I) I see it as a chance to celebrate everyone’s creativity and hard work.

C) I advocate for collective recognition, emphasizing the power of collaboration in our success.

23. My thoughts on compromise:

A) It’s essential for effective teamwork, but I prefer leading the terms.

L) I see it as a necessary strategy to reach the best logical outcome.

S) I view it as a way to maintain harmony among team members.

I) I think it can limit creativity; I prefer exploring all options.

C) Compromise is vital; it helps integrate everyone’s ideas into the final solution.

24. When gathering input from team members I prefer to:

A) Call for a quick vote or decision to keep things moving.

L) Create a structured survey or framework for feedback.

S) Organize open discussions where everyone feels comfortable sharing.

I) Host brainstorming sessions that allow for spontaneous idea generation.

C) Use collaborative tools (like workshops or brainstorming sessions) to integrate ideas and foster creativity.

25. If I encounter a setback, I typically:

A) Take immediate action to rectify the situation.

L) Analyze what went wrong and adjust my strategy.

S) Reach out for support and encouragement.

I) Look for creative ways to pivot and adapt.

C) Discuss the setback with the team to find a solution.

RESULTS

Interaction	Extravert
Desires	Control: To take charge of situations and influence outcomes. Achievement: To set and accomplish ambitious goals. Respect: To be seen as competent and authoritative.
Needs	Clarity: Clear expectations and objectives. Autonomy: Freedom to make decisions and act independently. Feedback: Direct, honest feedback on performance and results.
Fears	Loss of Control: Fearing situations where they cannot influence outcomes or decisions. Failure: Concern over not meeting their own or others' expectations for success. Being Undermined: Worrying that their authority will be challenged or disrespected.
Misinterpretation	Seen as bossy, impatient, or insensitive to others’ ideas and emotions. The Assertive communicator’s directness and focus on action can come across as domineering, especially to those who value collaboration or reflection. Others might feel they’re pushing their agenda without considering different viewpoints.
Clarification	Assertive communicators are typically highly committed to achieving goals and ensuring the team succeeds. They value decisiveness and often believe that taking charge helps everyone stay on track.

Interaction	Introvert
Desires	Understanding: To gain insight and knowledge through analysis. Accuracy: To ensure that details are correct and that information is reliable. Structure: To work within well-defined systems and processes.
Needs	Information: Access to data, facts, and thorough explanations. Time: Sufficient time to think, process, and respond. Consistency: A stable environment where procedures are followed.
Fears	Incompetence: Fear of being perceived as unknowledgeable or incorrect. Chaos: Discomfort with environments that lack structure or clear guidelines. Overwhelm: Anxiety about being overloaded with information or tasks without adequate support.
Misinterpretation	Perceived as detached, overly critical, or unapproachable. Logical communicators prioritize facts, data, and logic over emotions, which can sometimes make them seem cold or dismissive. Their tendency to focus on details and question assumptions may be taken as a lack of trust or resistance to new ideas.
Clarification	Logical communicators simply want to ensure accuracy and make well-informed decisions. They aim to be thorough and objective, not dismissive or resistant, and they value clear thinking and reliability.

Interaction	Introvert
Desires	Connection: To build meaningful relationships with others. Harmony: To maintain a peaceful and supportive environment. Appreciation: To feel valued and recognized for their contributions
Needs	Empathy: Understanding and compassion from others. Collaboration: Opportunities to work with others in a supportive manner. Reassurance: Positive feedback that validates their efforts and intentions.
Fears	Rejection: Fear of not being accepted or valued by others. Conflict: Anxiety about disharmony in relationships or team dynamics. Invisibility: Worry that their contributions will go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Misinterpretation	Viewed as overly accommodating, hesitant, or lacking assertiveness. The Supportive communicator’s focus on harmony and empathy can Supportive communicators are genuinely concerned about team cohesion and individual well-being. They often serve as the emotional glue in groups, working to ensure that everyone feels valued and heard, which they see as essential for long-term success.be mistaken for a lack of confidence or inability to make tough decisions. Others might see them as prioritizing relationships over results, especially in high-stakes situations.
Clarification	Supportive communicators are genuinely concerned about team cohesion and individual well-being. They often serve as the emotional glue in groups, working to ensure that everyone feels valued and heard, which they see as essential for long-term success.

Interaction	Extravert
Desires	Excitement: To engage in lively, stimulating conversations and experiences. Variety: To explore new ideas and creative solutions. Recognition: To be acknowledged for their creativity and enthusiasm.
Needs	Freedom: The ability to express ideas without constraints. Positivity: An encouraging environment that fosters optimism and enthusiasm. Interaction: Opportunities for dynamic interaction and brainstorming with others.
Fears	Boredom: Fear of routine and stagnation that stifles creativity and enthusiasm. Being Limited: Concern over restrictions that inhibit their ability to express ideas freely. Disappointment: Worry that their ideas or visions will be rejected or dismissed by others.
Misinterpretation	Seen as impractical, inconsistent, or distracted. Inspiring communicators bring energy and enthusiasm, often thinking creatively and spontaneously. Others may view their abundance of ideas as scattered or overly optimistic, especially if the ideas seem ungrounded in reality.
Clarification	Inspiring communicators are passionate about innovation and new perspectives. They strive to bring fresh thinking to the team, hoping to energize others and foster a dynamic, open environment. Their big-picture thinking is meant to inspire, not to detract from practical goals.

Interaction	Ambivert
Desires	Inclusion: To ensure everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Synergy: To create solutions that combine multiple perspectives for innovation. Cooperation: To foster teamwork and collective problem-solving
Needs	Open Dialogue: Opportunities for honest communication and feedback from all team members. Diverse Perspectives: Exposure to different ideas and viewpoints to enrich discussions. Shared Goals: Clear, common objectives that unify team efforts and promote collaboration.
Fears	Exclusion: Fear of not being included in conversations or decision-making processes. Conflict Among Team Members: Anxiety about disharmony that could disrupt collaboration and teamwork. Failure to Integrate: Concern that differing viewpoints will lead to divisiveness rather than constructive outcomes.
Misinterpretation	Perceived as indecisive, overly focused on consensus, or lacking individual conviction. Collaborative communicators aim to include everyone’s perspectives, which can be seen as slowing down decision-making or avoiding difficult choices. Others may misinterpret their preference for integration as a lack of independent thought.
Clarification	Collaborative communicators believe that everyone has valuable input and that the best solutions come from considering diverse viewpoints. They are driven by a desire for unity and believe that integrated decisions lead to more sustainable and inclusive outcomes.

About You:

Considerations when speaking with each Style

Each style brings unique strengths and benefits to teams, but to communicate effectively:

Assertive types should allow space for analysis and harmony while maintaining focus.
Logical communicators should embrace diverse ideas and foster openness.
Supportive communicators should voice their own thoughts confidently while valuing structure and goals.
Inspiring communicators should stay focused on goals while celebrating collaboration.
Collaborative communicators should balance team unity with individual goals and provide structure.

This mutual respect helps teams leverage each style's strengths, ultimately creating a more harmonious and productive environment.

Take some time to explore your style and compare yourself to the others styles you encounter at work, at home, and within your friend group.

Best Approach to These Styles
Assertive	Be concise and direct. Share big-picture goals. Show confidence in your ideas and decisions.
Logical	Be prepared to support your ideas with data and logical reasoning. Avoid pressuring them for immediate decisions; give them time to analyze.
Supportive	Show appreciation for their input and focus on creating a positive environment. Avoid being overly direct, as they may see it as confrontational.
Inspiring	Acknowledge their ideas and creativity. Avoid pushing for strict guidelines; allow flexibility to encourage their input.
Collaborative	Value their emphasis on teamwork and openness. Listen actively to ensure everyone’s voice is included, as they thrive on unity.

Best Approach to These Styles
Assertive	Keep explanations concise and relevant, focusing on key data points. Avoid dwelling on details too long, as they may prefer a faster pace.
Logical	Encourage in-depth analysis. Recognize thorough research. Use data to clarify decisions when collaborating.
Supportive	Offer patience and be sensitive to their feelings. Avoid overly critical or detached language, as they value harmony and may be put off by blunt logic.
Inspiring	Engage their ideas, even if they seem unconventional. Try not to be overly skeptical or restrict brainstorming; this could stifle their enthusiasm.
Collaborative	Show openness to team input and ideas. Avoid isolating yourself in analysis; include others to strengthen a sense of team cohesion.

Best Approach to These Styles
Assertive	Be direct when necessary, focusing on shared goals. Avoid sugar-coating your feedback; they value honesty and clear direction.
Logical	Bring up data or logic to support your points where possible. Avoid taking their critical analysis personally; understand it’s not about you but about finding the best solution.
Supportive	Build trust through consistent support. Offer open feedback when needed; be honest but gentle.
Inspiring	Show enthusiasm for their ideas and engage with their excitement. Avoid shutting down their ideas prematurely, as this may dampen their morale.
Collaborative	Encourage open dialogue and shared goals. Avoid being overly accommodating; share your own thoughts openly to strengthen collaboration.

Best Approach to These Styles
Assertive	Present your ideas enthusiastically but stay on-topic. Avoid straying too far from goals, as they value focus and results.
Logical	Be prepared to explain your ideas more thoroughly. Avoid assuming they’ll embrace new ideas immediately; they may need time to process.
Supportive	Bring positivity and acknowledge their contributions. Avoid overpowering the conversation; allow space for their insights and feelings.
Inspiring	Collaborate on brainstorming. Allow space for open ideas and mutual support. Validate their input freely.
Collaborative	Engage in open dialogue and brainstorming, valuing their Collaborative approach. Avoid focusing only on your own ideas; be receptive to others to foster a team dynamic.

Best Approach to These Styles
Assertive	Emphasize how everyone’s strengths support the shared goal. Avoid lengthy discussions on team dynamics; get to the point and keep the focus on results.
Logical	Be prepared for a methodical approach and ask questions to clarify details. Avoid pressuring for immediate engagement in brainstorming; allow them time to analyze.
Supportive	Foster a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Avoid neglecting individual needs; check in to ensure they feel valued and included in decision-making.
Inspiring	Be open to new ideas and maintain flexibility. Avoid being overly structured; allow room for their enthusiasm and creativity to flow naturally.
Collaborative	Balance team input with decision-making. Seek unity but avoid over-relying on consensus. Value diverse voices within the team.

The Communication Compass Quiz

About You: Assertive Style

About You: Logical Style

About You: Supportive Style

About You: Inspiring Style

About You: Collaborative Style

Assertive Style Speaking With

Logical Style Speaking With

Supportive Style Speaking With

Inspiring Style Speaking With

Collaborative Style Speaking With