Howard Friedman, Louise M. Prince, Ronald E. Riggio, and M. Robin DiMatteoa are all researchers at the University of California, Riverside and the creators of the Affective Communication Test (ACT) which essentially categorizes humans in two distinct ways. Senders and Receivers. The argument is that Senders can control emotional contagion through facial expressions, vocal tone, hand gestures, and so on. And Receivers are just that – they receive what the Sender sends and react as they have been subtly instructed. Receivers are the type to absorb. Depending on what the Sender signals, it is statistically powerful enough to sway the Receiver’s emotional state of mind from positive to negative or vice versa.

This concept is directly applicable to the professional ideology of categorizing yourself as an influencer or a supporter. If your goal is to be someone whose personal and professional advice is highly valued, then try your best to create a space where you make the news. Share your thoughts, come up with new ideas, be proactive, speak up during casual group conversations, and CREATE YOUR OWN NARRATIVE. Taking initiative to actively play this role WILL come naturally if it doesn’t already. If you know you excel at influencing, then let this be a reminder, but also keep in mind that it’s a powerful sword to swing. Destructive behavior on your end will lead to destructive results.

If you’re a Receiver and you know it – clap your hands. Be a Receiver with intent. Seek guidance and inspiration from those that stand for something you have a passion for. Follow the footsteps of people who are walking down a path you feel a desire to travel too. In a culture that praises dominant leadership, remember that there is no shame in wanting to follow others. Whether you know it or not, there are people who see you as their inspiration and learn from your every move.

For more information on the Affective Communication Test (ACT), I highly suggest you take time to read the following: Understanding and Assessing Nonverbal Expressiveness: The Affective Communication Test

-JO