Understanding sensory preferences to improve cooperation
A striking illustration of the distance between people... and the deep need to understand one another.
Understanding others... is already better communication.
In business, a large part of tensions, misunderstandings, or friction does not stem from a real disagreement... but simply from poor communication.
We don't all perceive the world in the same way.
We don't all process information through the same channels.
This is where Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) provides essential insight: we think with our senses.
VAKOG: an interpretation of thought processes
The VAKOG model identifies five representation systems:
| Canal | What the person prefers | Observable signs |
| Visual | Images, graphics, overview | «I see what you mean.» |
| Auditory | Speech, rhythm, verbal logic | «That sounds about right.» |
| Kinesthetic | Sensations, emotions, movement | «I have a good feeling about it.» |
| Olfactory | Smells, atmosphere | Rare in business, but influential |
| Taste | Flavor, symbolic of taste | More metaphorical in the pro |
Everyone has all five channels—but one or two are dominant.
At work, speaking the other person's sensory language changes everything.
A few simple examples:
- For a visual profile ➜ show the vision, diagrams, clean slides
- For an auditory learner ➜ choose precise words, allow time to listen/understand
- To a kinesthetic learner ➜ get moving, make it concrete, connect to emotion
- In team meetings ➜ mix media to reach everyone
Result:
✔ less friction
✔ greater understanding
✔ Faster and smoother decisions
✔ Harmonious and effective professional relationships
A powerful model… to be used ethically
I would like to reiterate that VAKOG is not a label:
❌ We don't put people into boxes.
✔️ We adapt to their natural mode of expression.
In professional coaching, this allows:
- to open up new cognitive pathways
- to develop relational flexibility
- to reveal often underutilized resources
My approach: communication in the service of leadership
In my coaching of executives and teams, I use VAKOG integrated with other recognized approaches:
- Transactional Analysis
- Enneagram
- Spiral Dynamics
- Nonviolent Communication
💡 The goal: think better to act sustainably
➡ improve the quality of interactions
➡ support performance and confidence
➡ Recruit and onboard the right talent
And you, what is your favorite mode?
For executives, managers, and salespeople, gaining a better understanding of themselves in this regard means strengthening their leadership and communication skills.
Painting: The Solitaries Edvard Munch 1899
📩 Would you like to explore your way of thinking and enhance the effectiveness of your professional interactions?
👉 Book a confidential exchange: contact@noeticaconsulting.fr
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