Cathy Liska Published with Permission from Assessments 24/7.
This is a Monday blog series; our regular coaching blog will be published on Thursday’s.
The previous blogs in this series explored DISC styles, working with, and adapting to each. Here are specific tips for adapting your communication style to each of the DISC styles.
Dominance – High “D” Style
- Listen to their suggestions, their course of action, and the results they are considering.
- Find areas where you already agree.
- Work backward toward gaining agreement on the results you both want and are willing to either mutually or independently allow the other to achieve: “Sarah, this format will give you the freedom to develop your branch your way and still allow Vern and Ellen to structure theirs another way… without sacrificing time or morale.”
Influence – High “I” Style
- Listen to their personal feelings and experiences.
- Their style requires open and responsive interaction with others, preferably in a manner of congenial and unhurried conversation (like that between long-time friends): “Just between you and me, Chris, I feel very uneasy about Jill and Howard handling this account by themselves.”
Steadiness – High “S” Style
- Be ready to do more talking than listening; they do not feel comfortable when the limelight is focused on them.
- Clarify any key agenda items with them.
- Stay organized and move forward steadily (but slowly) as you check to make sure they understand and accept what is being said: “Did you want me to stick around the office at a particular time each day in case you need to telephone me for emergency questions on this account, or do you want me to call you?”
Conscientious – High “C” Style
- Be well organized and clear in your communications.
- They search for logical conclusions.
- Ask your questions in a more discreet, non-judgmental manner to elicit the points, objectives, or assurances C’s want: “Lenny, I’m not trying to pressure you, but are you not interested in the auditor’s position, or in any position?”
In the next blog, explore how to adapt your leadership style based on your DISC style plus provides tips for leading each of the DISC styles.
