Ever wondered why some conversations flow effortlessly while others feel like you’re speaking entirely different languages?
Understanding human behaviour is the cornerstone of communication. The DISC model is a framework that sheds light on the intricacies of human interactions - developed by William Moulton Marston, a physiological psychologist with a PhD from Harvard. His 1928 book, Emotions of Normal People established the theories that were later developed by many others. The DISC (sometimes called DISA) model categorises behaviour into four main types:
Have you heard about DISC profiling? We recently participated in a training session led by Peter Magee from ActionCOACH, focusing on the DISC approach to understanding human behaviour. This eye-opening experience not only shed light on our own communication styles but also highlighted how this knowledge can enhance our interactions both personally and professionally.
The Power of DISC in Communication
Understanding your audience is key in communications, and if you intend to communicate with impact, you will need to understand your audience. There are many ways to segment audiences. The DISC method focuses on four different personality types to help you identify who you are communicating with and, most importantly, how to adapt your communication style to really connect. This method also explores how each type works well with others and, in some dynamics, does not work well with another personality type.
In life, you cannot always decide who you work with, so understanding DISC offers helpful advice on navigating and communicating in relationships where personality styles have innate conflict. Let’s dig deeper.
Dominance (D): These individuals are assertive, results-oriented, and enjoy challenges. When communicating with them, be direct and focus on the bottom line.
CEOs and high-powered executives often fall into this personality type. They tend to be
Influence (I): People with this style are social, persuasive, and enthusiastic. They thrive on positive interactions, so keep the conversation upbeat and engaging.
Sales and business development executives often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
Steadiness (S): These individuals are patient, reliable, and good listeners. When communicating, be warm and sincere, and provide them with ample time to process information.
Account Managers, and HRs, often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
Conscientiousness (C): Detail-oriented and analytical, people with this style appreciate structure and accuracy. In your interactions, be precise and provide them with data to support your points.
Finance Controllers often fall into this personality type. They tend to be:
In a perfect work environment, every team should have each type represented for optimal results. It’s also important for each to occupy the right role to have them thrive.
However, there is no perfect behaviour type. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Any behavioural type can backfire if it’s applied in the wrong situation or if it’s taken to an extreme.
The key to communication starts with self-awareness. Understanding yourself and how you prefer to communicate is critical to you and those who work alongside you. Developing empathy and taking the time to understand the different types in your team is what makes a dream team.
Can You Guess Our Profiles?
Here’s a fun challenge: Can you guess the DISC profiles of the staff here at RNN Comms? Our team is a dynamic mix of personalities, each bringing something unique to the table. Share your guesses with us 👀
