In the example, taken from Jo Owen’s The Leadership Skills Handbook, the compass plot shows an analytical, big picture risk taker who prefers written communications. 

Now, compare your traits to theirs and roughly map where you are on the same Style Compass. If there’s lots of overlap, you’re in luck. But it’s more likely that you will have to work out how to get onto the same wavelength. 

In Diagram 2, the influencer is more action oriented, prefers oral communication and likes getting into the detail. While they cannot change those preferences, by adapting their behaviour to get more on the same wavelength as the person to be influenced – providing more information in writing, providing analytical reasons why the big picture is the right one – there is a path to having more impact.

The tool is not intended to be scientifically accurate, but it allows you to quickly assess dominant characteristics you should match in order to influence people.

The ability to influence others positively is an essential skill for any leader or manager. By making changes in your behaviour, you can radically change how you influence others.