Book Review: “Surrounded by Idiots: The four types of human behavior and how to effectively communicate with each in business (and in life)” by Thomas Erikson

Reviewed by Burnett Munthali

In Surrounded by Idiots, Thomas Erikson offers a practical guide to understanding human behavior and communication, categorizing personalities into four distinct types represented by colors: Red, Yellow, Green, and Blue. This framework is designed to help individuals navigate relationships in both professional and personal settings, improving communication and fostering better interactions with others.

1) The four personality types:

Erikson introduces the concept of the four personality types, each associated with a color: Red (dominant), Yellow (inspiring), Green (stable), and Blue (analytical). These categories serve as a lens for recognizing different communication styles, highlighting the importance of adapting our approach based on the individual we are interacting with. This simple, yet effective model allows readers to identify their own behavior and that of others, fostering better understanding and improved relationships.

2) Understanding red personalities:

Reds are assertive, decisive, and competitive. They are natural leaders, but their straightforwardness can sometimes be perceived as aggression or insensitivity. Erikson stresses the need for direct and efficient communication when dealing with Reds. Clear and concise conversations will resonate with them, as they prefer to get straight to the point without unnecessary embellishments.

3) Engaging yellow personalities:

Yellows are social, enthusiastic, and persuasive. They thrive on interaction and recognition, often bringing energy and creativity to any situation. Erikson advises engaging Yellows with positivity and enthusiasm, as they respond well to lively, dynamic conversations. Acknowledge their contributions and encourage their creativity to build rapport and foster effective communication.

4) Supporting green personalities:

Greens are calm, patient, and empathetic. They value harmony and stability, often avoiding conflict in favor of maintaining peace. Erikson recommends taking a gentle, supportive approach when communicating with Greens. Building trust and ensuring they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings is crucial for a successful interaction. Patience and understanding are key when dealing with this personality type.

5) Interacting with blue personalities:

Blues are detail-oriented, analytical, and systematic. They prefer structure, facts, and thoroughness in their communication. Erikson advises providing clear data and giving Blues time to process information before making decisions. When engaging with Blues, ensure that the conversation is well-organized and backed by solid evidence. Their preference for logic and precision makes them valuable in situations requiring careful thought and analysis.

6) Recognizing and adapting to differences:

A core lesson of Surrounded by Idiots is the importance of recognizing and adapting to the different communication styles of others. Understanding that everyone has a distinct personality type allows us to tailor our approach, leading to more effective and harmonious interactions. Erikson encourages readers to develop the flexibility needed to navigate diverse personalities, creating stronger connections and reducing misunderstandings.

7) Conflict resolution strategies:

Erikson offers valuable insights on conflict resolution by recognizing that personality types play a significant role in how conflicts arise and are handled. Each personality type has its own approach to disagreements, and understanding these tendencies can guide individuals in finding tailored solutions. For example, while Reds may prefer quick, decisive resolutions, Greens may need more time and reassurance. Recognizing these differences allows for more thoughtful and productive conflict resolution.

8) Leveraging strengths and weaknesses:

Each personality type comes with its own strengths and weaknesses. Erikson emphasizes the importance of leveraging these traits in a way that enhances communication and collaboration. For instance, while Reds are natural leaders, their assertiveness may need to be tempered to avoid alienating others. Understanding these strengths and weaknesses allows individuals to use them to their advantage, enhancing personal and professional relationships.

9) Building effective teams:

Erikson highlights the significance of understanding personality types in team dynamics. By recognizing the diverse traits within a team, leaders can assign roles that play to each member’s strengths. This ensures a balanced team environment where collaboration is maximized, and conflicts are minimized. Tailoring roles based on personality types also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, improving team performance.

10) Enhancing personal relationships:

The insights provided in Surrounded by Idiots are not limited to professional settings; they are equally valuable in personal relationships. By applying these principles, individuals can improve their communication with family, friends, and partners, leading to healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Understanding each other’s personality types can deepen empathy and create stronger emotional connections.

Surrounded by Idiots is an insightful and accessible guide to improving communication and understanding human behavior. By categorizing personality types and offering practical strategies for engaging with each type, Thomas Erikson provides readers with valuable tools for building stronger relationships in all areas of life. Whether in the workplace or in personal interactions, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills and navigate the complexities of human behavior.