Wednesday, January 22, 2014

How The DISC Personality Test Can Deepen Your Understanding Of Yourself And Others

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.

Influencer types are also great action-takers, but they are much more easy-going. They value collaboration and work well with those who value their positive outlook. Their (many) friends and associates may describe them as fun to be with, enthusiastic, resourceful, warm and charming. Although they will begin their projects with great energy, they can struggle to follow through and they can also be disorganised. Getting along with this type is easy as long as one is a positive team player.

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.

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.




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