Language and representation systems

For Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP) it is essential to enhance the ability to communicate. It is its main means to modify the perception of experience and improve people's quality of life.

Knowing how the brain works when we communicate is a goal of NLP. One of the ways used is to identify language patterns when we express ourselves.

What is a representation system in NLP?

The main ways we perceive our surroundings are visual, auditory and kinesthetic which includes taste, smell and touch. These would be the systems of representation.

These systems are schemes used by each individual to interact with reality. They show us how people receive information (perceive it), how they process it (represent it), how they respond to stimuli (express themselves) and interact with their environment and with others (communicate).

These systems coexist in the person but usually one predominates, in some cases even two, both for receiving and communicating. This will be the way in which he/she will interpret reality.

Representation systems

Each system has its own codes and keys. This may be part of the explanation why it is sometimes so difficult to communicate with someone. If they use different systems, communication would not be fluid. It is helpful to be able to adapt to the predominant system of the interlocutor.

We have made sure that each profession, sector or environment into which we have divided the world has its own standardized language to promote better understanding among its members. Even so, there are frequent failures in communication. But in a normal or informal conversation we only have our personal filters and everyone can literally be in their own world.

Social conventions and cultural identities aside, these systems of representation help us to better understand others, as they bring us closer to how they see the world. For our message to get through effectively, we must sometimes adjust to our interlocutor. Knowing about these schemes makes it easier for us to do so.

Here we will describe the three systems and their main characteristics. Visual representation system: people in whom the visual predominates receive, interpret and emit information from images. This is the main element when remembering events. They can absorb and remember a great amount of details. They are concerned about the appearance of themselves and their surroundings.

They are very graphic when speaking. They can jump from one idea to another when expressing themselves so it can be confusing to follow, relying on gestures and a high tone. Despite this, they communicate fluently at a rather fast pace.

When learning their strategy, they also tend to rely on visual elements. Even when taking notes, they are detail-oriented. It is easier for them to understand, summarize and explain with images, infographics, illustrations, diagrams and so on.

To facilitate communication use codes that they can easily understand such as look at it my way, I see you don't like it, let me show you what I'm saying, I see it clearly. Fill your message with visual and descriptive allusions. You can also mimic their body language by gesturing more. Make sure you are seen.

Auditory representation system: people in which the auditory predominates receive, interpret and emit information more easily from sounds. This is the main element when it comes to remembering. What they heard, what was spoken, what others said.

They are good at interpreting the meaning of what they hear by the tone and inflections of the voice, aspects that perhaps go unnoticed or are misinterpreted by others. They seek conversation with others, this motivates them. Their style is more regular and thorough, developing each idea before moving on to the next, without skipping anything. Everything is well related, and in sequence. At a leisurely pace.

When learning, they do it by listening attentively, speaking and repeating aloud. They take their time to read, they like to go deeper into what they are told. In addition, they often tell stories, anecdotes and reinforce the message with sound effects.

To facilitate communication, use codes that are easy to understand, such as: let's not argue, I don't understand what you are saying, that sounds great, tell me about it. Measure your words and make sure your speech is clear and orderly. Don't