Remember that scene in the original Star Wars when Obi-Wan Kenobi, played by Sir Alec Guinness, casually breezes past a stormtrooper blockade with a deft wave of his hand and a “move along”? As it turns out, such persuasive feats are impossible in real life (believe us, we’ve tried). No matter how effective a communicator you think you might be, there’ll always be people who rub you up the wrong way. From the guy in the office who won’t shut up, to the family member that won’t, well, talk at all, sometimes interacting with those around us can feel like swimming against the tide.

Thankfully, Mr Thomas Erikson – a behavioural expert and advisor to the likes of Ikea, Coca-Cola and Microsoft – may have a solution to your interpersonal woes. His book, Surrounded By Idiots, breaks down the Disc theory put forward by psychologist Mr William Moulton Marston – essentially categorising people into four distinct, easy-to-understand personality types, each represented by a colour.

“Instead of thinking that the other guy is a bit weird, it’s very useful to understand why he reacts the way he does,” Mr Erikson tells us. “And the more you understand other people’s point of views – and they yours – the fewer idiots you have to deal with. Everybody wins!”

We spoke with Mr Erikson to find out more about each personality type, how to identify them, and how you can hone your communication skills to get the best out of the people you encounter in life – no Jedi mind tricks required.

“Reds are direct, with a strong sense of urgency and a result orientation,” says Mr Erikson.  “They never sit still if it can be avoided; action is everything. And they act now. The Reds’ behaviour comes from their willingness to take on really difficult situations and tough challenges.”

The best way to meet the Reds, he says, is to get to the point. Really fast. “They have absolutely no patience for us beating around the bush. And avoid trying to make friends with them, especially at work. They’re not here as your buddies, and they want you to be strictly professional. Go in, tell them what you have to say and then get out. Do not ask if they saw the game yesterday. Charming? No, but it works.”

“Lovely Yellows like to inspire you,” says Mr Erikson. “Like Reds, they’re extroverts, but are also people-orientated. This gives them traits like openness and positivity, and they can literally talk and breathe in at the same time. Thinking outside the box? Not a problem. They solve problems no one has ever heard of, they answer questions no one has asked, but you can’t help but love them for it.”

When it comes to Yellows, Mr Erikson recommends patience (and lots of it). “They like talking about themselves, but it can be very inspiring. Accept that they don’t think in a straight line. And they think out loud, so wait until they have finished talking and see what can be used. What you should avoid is trying to control them; they hate that and will react with a bad temper.”

“Greens strive for stability,” says Mr Erikson. “They are introverts and people-orientated, which makes them dislike change. They understand the need for change sometimes, but they prefer the status quo. They are friendly, good listeners and they like to be a part of the group rather than individuals. A Green would never get herself coffee without asking if you would like some.

“Also, take it easy with this kind of person,” he continues. “Give them time, don’t stress them. Be friendly and listen carefully when they speak. Understand that they will take some time to come back to you. Accept that they won’t give you straightforward answers. And remember that they are very conflict-averse. If you’re too pushy, they’ll close themselves totally – just a strange look on your face can do that, and now you’re being aggressive.”

“Blues are driven by the need to follow protocol,” says Mr Erikson. “Rules and regulations have a big part of their attention. They are introverts and task-focused; more about the process than the results. This gives them a kind of detail-orientated view. They notice everything that is not going according to plan. This also often makes them criticise things in a dry tone that can make others go crazy. They don’t miss anything.

“The best thing you can do is to slow down and check everything before you open your mouth. They are suspicious and will judge you if you make errors. Make sure you have the data. All of it. And don’t touch them if it’s not necessary. Blues don’t hate other people, but they would like to decide for themselves before being too friendly with you. Respect their physical private zone.”