Untangle The Mystery Of Other People's Behaviour Using The DISC Personality Test

By Judy Sullivan


Insights gained from the DISC personality test can transform how we see both ourselves, and others. It reveals a basic orientation that each one of us has that influences how we think and behave. By understanding this system, we can see ourselves and other people more clearly and thus bring greater awareness and harmony to our work and home lives.

DISC theory holds that each one of us exhibits one of four personal styles. The four styles are Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Conscientiousness. We are each a unique blend of the four styles, but will generally have a dominant style that is supported by a secondary style, a tertiary style and an inferior style. Some of us may have an absent style. The following is a brief thumbnail sketch of each style.

Dominant style people are life's competitors. They value challenge, action-taking, boldness, winning and success. They are often described as forceful, fast-paced, blunt, impatient, demanding and strong-willed. They may lack tact, and can alienate others with their dominating style. To get along with a 'D', be clear and direct in communicating, get to the point, stand your ground and focus on solutions rather than problems.

Influencers are also doers, but they are much easier to get along with. They are positive, enthusiastic and enjoy collaborating with others. They value social recognition and are often described as gregarious, charming, persuasive and fun to be with. Despite their can-do and competence, they can be disorganised and sometimes struggle to follow through with projects. To get on with an influencer, be a positive team player, don't be too serious, and spare them from too many details.

Co-operative and good-natured, those with the Steadiness style are amiable and dependable. They like stable environments where there are firm rules and where they will be appreciated. They dislike aggression and discord, and get along best with those who share their friendly outlook. On the downside, their traditionalist orientation can make them resistant to change, and their good nature can lead them to be over-accommodating.

Conscientiousness style people tend to be analytical, independent thinkers who prize accuracy and competence. They are also careful, cautious, detail-orientated, diplomatic and tactful. On the downside, they can be over-analytical and over-critical. To get along with a C-type, focus on facts and details, minimise emotional language, and be patient and diplomatic.

The variations in the styles goes some way to explaining why there can be so much conflict and misunderstanding in life. Getting on with others who have a very different style to our own can certainly be a challenge. DISC enables us to truly understand others and thus be better equipped to create friendship and harmony.

For those in managerial positions, using the DISC personality test enables them to organise their teams/departments much more effectively. They are much better able to match people to the positions or tasks that suit them best. This can lead to great improvements in morale and productivity. Even those with a more casual interest in the four styles can learn to understand others better and greatly improve their daily interactions.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment