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

By Judy Sullivan


The DISC personality test can be a powerful tool for understanding both ourselves and others. Based on a theory devised by William Moulton Marston, it reveals core characteristics that drive our thinking and behaviour. By using this methodology, we can understand ourselves and others better and so enjoy much better work and family lives.

At the heart of DISC theory is the concept of the four styles. They are Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Conscientiousness. Rather than being strictly one style, each of us is a unique mix of the four, but will usually have one dominant style. This is supported by a secondary one, a tertiary one and an inferior one. Following below is a short overview of the four styles.

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.

Those of the Steadiness style are good-natured co-operators who seek harmony with others. They favor a stable environment where they help others and feel appreciated. On the negative side, they can be indecisive and over-accommodating, and can resist change. To get on with an S-type, be co-operative, amiable, avoid displays of aggression and show appreciation.

Analytical and independent-minded, those with the Conscientiousness style are focused and detail-orientated. Often highly intelligent, they place great value on competence and accuracy. Those who know them may describe them as diplomatic, careful and thorough. Their love of competence can lead them to be critical, and they can over-analyze when they should be taking action. To get on with this type, be factual rather than emotional, and be patient with them.

As the above outlines demonstrate, each of the four types of people are very distinct, which goes some way to explaining why there can be so much conflict in day-to-day life. It can certainly be a challenge sometimes to get along with others who are very different from ourselves. DISC is a way to make much better sense of other people. It sheds some light on behaviours that can otherwise be baffling and irritating, and helps us reach a place of understanding and avoid conflict.

For bosses and managers, the DISC personality test is a way to get into the minds of employees and deploy them in projects that make the most of their strengths. This can often massively improve morale and productivity. On a non-professional level, having knowledge of the DISC style can help us navigate the sometimes choppy waters of our family and personal lives with much greater poise.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment