Ever tried explaining to an employee how to use a photocopy machine using just words yet they don’t understand, but when you demonstrate to them how to use it, they understand immediately?

VARK Learning Style shows that everyone has a way of learning and processing information.

1. V: Visual Learners

They understand tasks and content by watching something prior to trying it themselves. They respond well to graphics and videos. They ask questions like, “Can you demonstrate that for me?”

2. A: Auditory Learners

They do best when listening to content. They tend to grasp better when the information is presented to them vocally. Typical question from this group is, “Can you explain further?”

3. R: Reading/Writing Learners

Learners in this group prefer information in written form; memos, mails, manuals etc. They excel best with text information. They ask questions like, “Is there a manual for me to read?”

4. K: Kinesthetic Learners

They understand best by doing, touching or acting it out. Hands-on projects are an effective way of transferring knowledge to this category of learners. They ask questions like, “Can I try it myself?”

As business owners and managers, it is our responsibility to observe what works for our team in order to ensure our message is well received and everyone is on-board.