Blog: Why knowing your learning style makes a difference in the workplace

We’re constantly learning—often without even realizing it. Whether it’s taking on a new project, receiving feedback, or collaborating in a team, learning is deeply woven into the way we work. But not everyone learns in the same way. And it’s precisely in those differences that friction can arise—but also powerful complementarity.

Four Learning Styles: Four Lenses on Reality

David Kolb’s learning model shows that every learning journey starts with a preferred personal style. He outlines four key learning styles:

• The Dreamer (Experiencer) (reflective): takes time to process and reflect on information
• The Thinker (analytical): explores and analyzes in depth
• The Experiencer (Doer) (experimenteel): learns through experimenting
• The Decider (Action-oriented): gets hands-on right away. Learns best through trial and experience.

This learning style affects not only how you absorb new knowledge, but also how you communicate, make decisions, and collaborate. And that shows up in the workplace—in ways that are often easy to recognize.

The Impact of Learning Styles on Teamwork

• The Dreamer and the Thinker: calm versus clarity
  A Thinker lays out a detailed plan to their Dreamer manager, who responds: “Let’s give this some time to sink in.” The Thinker feels frustrated, craving clear direction. Meanwhile, the Dreamer feels pressured—they need space to let the idea land emotionally.
  The Key: the Thinker builds in time for reflection; the Dreamer communicates clearly when and how a decision will be made.
• The Thinker and The Decider: analysis versus drive for action
  A Thinker hands over a thorough report. The Decider cuts straight to the point: “What’s the action plan?” The Thinker feels overlooked, while the Decider struggles to stay engaged with all the detail.
  The Key: Turn analysis into clear action steps. The Decider learns to value solid reasoning, while the Thinker learns to communicate the essence more efficiently.
• The Decider and The Dreamer: speed meets empathy
  The Decider pushes ahead with swift action. The Dreamer wonders whether this aligns with the team’s overall feeling. The Decider feels held back; the Dreamer misses a sense of connection.
  The Key: schedule regular reflection moments that address both direction and emotion. This builds support and long-term impact.
• The Thinker and The Doer: holding back versus taking action
  The Thinker wants to gather data first; the Doer wants to get started right away. The Thinker feels ignored, the Doer grows impatient.
  The key: create an initial safe test phase that allows room for both analysis and action.

Your learning style is not a label — it is a lens.

Your learning style doesn’t define you, but it does influence how you perceive, interact, and grow with others. When you understand your own style—and recognize your colleagues’—you create more connection and impact. It’s in those differences that the real strength of a team often lies.

Curious about your learning style—and how to turn it into a strength at work?
A voice assessment can offer surprising insights into your learning and communication style. It starts with awareness and leads to better collaboration and growth—for both you and your team.