Understanding Visual Thinkers

Introduction to Thought Styles

• There are three main ways people process information, and these are linked to body language.
• Recognizing these styles prevents miscommunication.
• Communication and persuasion are enhanced by understanding these styles.

Personal Anecdote

• A client's behavior was once misinterpreted as disinterest or inappropriate focus.
• The speaker once misinterpreted a client's behavior, assuming lack of interest or inappropriate focus.
• The client's behavior was simply due to a different processing style.
• Misinterpreting this caused discomfort for both parties.

The Visual Thinker (Seer)

• 75% of people are primarily visual thinkers.
• Information is processed mainly through images and visuals.

Identifying Visual Thinkers

• They often have good posture and dress well.
• Tension may be exhibited in their shoulders.
• Wrinkles tend to be present on their forehead.
• A common trait is having thin lips.
• They maintain high levels of eye contact.

Communicating with Visual Thinkers

• Strong eye contact equates to interest and engagement for them.
• Use visually oriented language; for example, "I see what you mean," or "Let's visualize this."

The Auditory Thinker (Listener)

• Auditory thinkers comprise 20% of the population.
• They process information through words and sounds.

Identifying Auditory Thinkers

• Their attire may not be as meticulous as visual thinkers.
• They often look down and to the left when recalling information.
• The "telephone position" involves resting their head on their hand.
• They sometimes mumble to themselves.
• Tapping pens or fingers may occur.

Communicating with Auditory Thinkers

• Excessive eye contact can be intimidating, so avoid it.
• Alternate eye contact during conversation.
• "That sounds good to me," or "Let's talk about it" are examples of auditory language that can be used.

The Kinesthetic Thinker (Feeler)

• Kinesthetic thinkers account for 5% of the population.
• Information is processed through emotions and tactile sensations.

Identifying Kinesthetic Thinkers

• Hugging upon meeting is a common behavior.
• Comfort is prioritized in their clothing choices.
• They often have full lips.
• Leaning into and reducing physical space is a common tendency.
• Touching your arm during conversation could happen.
• Looking downward when recalling feelings or sensations is common.

Communicating with Kinesthetic Thinkers

• Allow them to touch you, if you are comfortable.
• If uncomfortable, offer a handshake as a point of connection.
• Use feeling and touch-related language.
• Examples: "I want to hear how you feel about this," and "Let's connect."

Identifying Your Own Thought Style

• To determine your dominant style, close your eyes and recall an important memory.
• Note whether you remember it as a film, sounds, or feelings.

Conclusion

• People tend to interact with others as if they share the same thought style.
• Observe others' body language to understand their thinking style.
• Communication should be tailored to resonate with their style.
• Discerning someone's style can be done remotely through listening to their words or reading their emails.
• Authenticity is key. You can’t change your dominant thought style.
• Adapt communication, both verbal and nonverbal, to build rapport.
• You'll become a more persuasive communicator by using these tools to connect with various people.