- DISC assessments are developed from the answers to
a series of questions. The profile will indicate the natural tendencies
that someone has with special regard to dominance, influence, steadiness
and compliance (DISC). A profile can be used to learn more about yourself,
interpret your interactions with others and help to build organizations
and teams using the best people for each role.
- Whilst it is true that everyone is an individual with a delicate
mix of different parts, it is also true to say we all have elements
of the four main personality traits outlined below. The strongest side
of our personality dictates what we are like, how we think and how
we are likely to react in a given situation.
- The mistake we all make is in thinking that what motivates us should
also motivate others. If it doesn't we sell or cajole into seeing it
from our point of view.
- Everyone has a degree of each of the four main
elements in their profile. The key to profiling is knowing how much
of each makes up a person's profile and thus indicates what their personality
is like. The elements fall into four categories often referred to as:-
| D.I.S.C. which
stands for:- |
D |
= |
Dominance |
I |
= |
Influence |
S |
= |
Steadiness |
C |
= |
Compliance |
DOMINANCE
- Characteristics
Described as tough, quick, decisive, logical and competitive. They
are very results-oriented with a high activity level, which can make
them impatient and intolerant of others who do not move quickly enough.
Being popular is not important to the Driver. Being competitive,
they need a work environment that allows them to gamble their abilities
and energy against a win or lose situation.
- Strengths
The "D" is a good leader when they
are able to control their patience levels. They usually have high activity
levels.
INFLUENCE
- Characteristics
Motivators are easily recognized by their highly
expressive communication skills, often described as good motivators
because of verbal skills. Motivated by independence of action and
popularity, they enjoy meeting new people, exploring new ideas and
developing new concepts.
- Strengths
They thrive on variety and have little fear
of strangers. Conversations are very easy for them. They are highly
motivated to achieve success in any area that sees them actively
involved with people. They are warm and empathetic regarding the
needs of others.
STEADINESS
- Characteristics
Steady people rely upon structure and procedures
to complete job duties. They have a lower need for acceptance or
approval. Their activity level is even-paced and consistent. Things
must be analysed and thought through before any decision can be made.
Making the right decision is much more important than pleasing others.
How well the job is done is always more important than how quickly
it can be done. They typically avoid close personal relationships,
and security and order motivate them. Others describe them as quiet,
logical, thorough, reserved, accurate and deliberate.
- Strengths
They prefer facts and take time for analysis
before a conclusion is drawn. They can follow a specific and often
complex routine that demands thorough analysis. Decisions are made
objectively without being influenced by others. They enjoy study and
intellectual challenges related to their profession. Job changes are
few and far between. Security is much more important than other needs.
As a result, they are dependable and consistent in their work effort,
self-disciplined and methodical. They are organized and efficient in
their efforts to complete a job.
COMPLIANCE
- Characteristics
Characterized by a high degree of patience.
They are even-paced, consistent and predictable. They enjoy relationships
that are open and honest and are most motivated by service and least
motivated by achievement. They typically enjoy listening more than
talking. They often rank friends and family even above themselves.
Supporters are described as friendly, helpful and kind, slow to act,
willing, careful, non-competitive, soft-hearted, easy going and responsive.
- Strengths
Warmth and sensitivity to the needs of others
are the supporter's greatest strengths. They are typically well liked
and sincerely appreciated, especially by those who may have personal
or emotional problems and seek assistance from the supporter. They
make good counselor's because of their patience and ability to listen
while others vent their frustrations. Compassion and sensitivity
are their greatest assets.
In conclusion it is quite probable that you recognize yourself amongst
the above descriptions, whilst at the same time see parts of yourself
in other descriptions. The important thing to understand is that the
main aspect of someone's personality is usually obvious to you and to
the people around you.
