It is probably pretty safe to say that when we go to work, as professionals, we are all interested in getting the job done, doing it well, and engaging in positive and effective working relationships with our colleagues. Just the same, anyone who has ever worked in an office and experienced tensions with colleagues or ineffective communication between teammates knows that things aren’t always that simple. Rather, behavioral styles — biases and preferences that influence how we behave and communicate — get in the way.

Every behavioral style can present as a strength or a weakness depending on the circumstances and what other styles are in the mix, so awareness of them is critically important to building and improving your professional relationships. In this Career Conversation, Kassie Steegman, CFA, explains how you can begin to be aware of behavioral styles, both yours and others’.

As Steegman explains, here are a few things to pay attention to when beginning to assess styles:

• Pace and energy: Does the individual move or act quickly and often?
• Big picture or details: Does the individual tend to focus first on the big picture or the essential details?
• People or process: Does the individual seem motivated by interacting with others or following protocol?

Being aware of behavioral styles and fully appreciating that the individuals you work with may not share yours allows you to adapt accordingly for more effective and efficient interactions.

Please note that the content of this site should not be construed as investment advice, nor do the opinions expressed necessarily reflect the views of CFA Institute.