By Judy Sullivan


As a tool for understanding ourselves and others, the DISC personality test is widely regarded as one of the most useful available. It is based upon the theories of William Moulton Marston and reveals the basic characteristics that shape our thinking and behaviour. By using the test, we can learn a tremendous amount about ourselves and the people we associate with, and greatly improve our career and home 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.

Someone with a Dominant style will be one of life's competitors. These folks are bold action-takers who thrive on challenge. They may be regarded as blunt, forceful, decisive, demanding and with a strong personality. However, their lack of tact can alienate others, and this can work against them. The key to getting along with a D-type is to be clear and to-the-point, stand your ground, and don't test their patience.

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.

Those with Steadiness as their main style are also generally easy to get on with. They tend to be traditionalists, and value social harmony and co-operation. This need for inter-personal harmony can lead them to be over-accommodating. They can also be indecisive and resistant to change. To get along with an S-type, be friendly, avoid anger, and be sure to show appreciation when appropriate.

Conscientiousness style people tend to be analytical, independent thinkers who prize accuracy and competence. They are also careful, cautious, detail-orientated, diplomatic and tactful. On the downside, they can be over-analytical and over-critical. To get along with a C-type, focus on facts and details, minimise emotional language, and be patient and diplomatic.

It's clear that each style is very distinct, and these differences reveal why there is so much conflict and misunderstanding in everyday life. These inter-personal challenges are made less problematic when one has a deeper understanding of others, and oneself. Knowledge of DISC can make communication with other people, and getting along with them, vastly easier. It also reveals why people can behave the way they do, and thus make their behaviours much less puzzling.

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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