What is an NLP Metaprogram?

The second phase of the Sure Hire Assessment that makes it so unique is the elicitation of the 21 Metaprograms from the science of Neuro Linguistic Programming, NLP. Before we can understand what a metaprogram is, we have to understand what the science of NLP is. NLP was developed in the early 1970's by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. They were curious as to "HOW" three therapists were so successful at supporting their clients to create psychological change. They set out to identify the "Models of Excellence" that Fritz Perles, Virginia Satire, and Milton Erickson had created.

Richard Bandler and John Grinder identified the 21 Metaprograms in that modelling process. Metaprograms are small little programs (ways of thinking) that happen consistently in people. Metaprograms include Convincer Strategies, Motivational Strategies, Speaking Strategies, Communication Strategies, Love Strategies, Work Preference Strategies; to name a few.

I have grouped these strategies into two basic components: Communication and Motivation. The Sure Hire Assessment will allow management to communicate with and motivate people more effectively by understand "how" they process information. You can then speak in their patterns to get better results.

Let me give you an example. One metaprogram identifies "how" a person speaks. They can be Literal or Inferential. A Literal person will speak directly and bluntly and come straight to the point. They may come off as rude, insensitive, unsympathetic or uncaring. "This needs to be done by 4:00pm, no exceptions. Do it!" The Inferential person however, will infer what they want from you. An inferential person will tell you, "this report needs to be completed" and really mean inside their head, "This report is very important and needs to be completed by 4:00pm tonight or we will lose this client."

By understanding people's metaprograms we can increase the effectiveness of communications in the workplace, reduce human error due to misunderstanding and increase productivity. Understanding these metaprograms will allow you to make the best hiring decisions, find the best candidate for your position and support management to be more effective.