Since Thomas Erikson, author of Surrounded by Idiots, shared his wisdom on DISC profiling at InnerRebel in 2023, I’ve been captivated by the power of this tool. So much so that earlier this year, I took the plunge and became a certified DISC Assessor.

What is DISC?

DISC is a model that helps decode human behavior and communication styles, broken down into four key personality preferences: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). It’s a powerful framework for understanding why you, and those around you, act the way you do in different environments—whether at work, in social settings, or even at home.

But here’s the thing I love most about DISC: it’s not about pigeonholing people or slapping a label on someone. It’s a dialogue tool—a way to build better understanding and collaboration. Most of us aren’t a perfect match to just one category. We’re a blend of two or three, with one attribute usually taking the lead.

So, what does each of these preferences look like in action?

🟥 Dominance (D): If you lean towards Dominance, you’re likely goal-oriented, direct, and laser-focused on getting things done. You’re not easily discouraged, though some might call you opinionated. You have a strong drive to succeed and may occasionally bulldoze through obstacles—or conversations.

🟨 Influence (I): If Influence is your jam, you’re the life of the party. You thrive on social interactions, love engaging with others, and have a knack for lifting spirits. You’re optimistic, full of ideas, and always up for a good chat. On the flip side, your enthusiasm can sometimes dominate the room, but you know how to lighten any mood.

🟩 Steadiness (S): For those who gravitate toward Steadiness, you’re likely a thoughtful and calm presence. You care deeply about others’ well-being and prefer to listen before weighing in. You’re the glue that holds teams together, though sometimes that same trait can be mistaken for indecisiveness or over-compromise.

🟦 Conscientiousness (C): If you favour Conscientiousness, you’re precise, analytical, and meticulous in all you do. You believe in making data-driven decisions and won’t commit to a course of action without considering all the facts. You may come across as aloof, but your focus is on accuracy and getting things right the first time.

What are the benefits of using DISC? Let’s break it down:

1. Boosts team collaboration: By understanding your team members’ unique strengths and communication styles, you can cultivate stronger, more cohesive collaboration. Everyone works better when they feel understood, right?
2. Reduces miscommunication: Ever had a conversation where you and the other person just weren’t on the same wavelength? DISC helps you spot where those breakdowns might happen so you can adjust and communicate more effectively.
3. Plays to strengths: Each DISC profile has its superpowers. Once you know your style—and that of those around you—you can tap into those strengths and delegate tasks accordingly. This means more productivity and less frustration. Win-win!
4. Improves conflict resolution: Conflict is inevitable, but DISC gives you insight into how each personality type handles stress and confrontation. This can help you navigate tense situations with empathy and understanding, preventing small issues from snowballing.
5. Enhances leadership skills: Whether you’re managing a team or aspiring to, understanding DISC helps you adapt your leadership style. You’ll be able to motivate and guide each team member in a way that suits them best, helping them—and you—thrive.
6. Personal growth: DISC isn’t just about understanding others—it’s about understanding yourself. By identifying your natural tendencies, you can work on areas for growth, like becoming more decisive, assertive, or collaborative when needed.

If any of this resonates and you’re curious about where you fall on the DISC spectrum, get in touch!

As a certified DISC assessor, I can help you and your team uncover your preferences, improve communication, and work more harmoniously. The better we understand each other, the better we can collaborate and thrive.

If you’re interested, drop us an email to hello@commsrebel.com. Prices start from £250 per person.

PS. If you enjoyed reading this post, you may find my top 5 powerful tips on how to manage different viewpoints at work helpful.