Introduction to profiling
Using profiling in business
Profile form

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. Understanding this enables us to get the best out of the situation ourselves

Mistakes We All Make
The mistake we all make is in thinking that what motivates us should also motivate others. If it doesn't we sell, cajole or push others into seeing things from our point of view. This is often why the "Boss" is thought of as arrogant, inconsiderate or just a poor manager.
What are the main parts to everyone's profile ?
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

 
D
Stands for
Dominance/Driver
I
Stands for
Influence/Persuader/Motivator
S
Stands for
Steadiness/Thinker
C
Stands for
Compliance/Supporter
The elements fall into four categories often referred to as DISC or DMTS.
 
......DOMINANCE... "The Dominant Driver"
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. They are not bogged down by sympathy or sentimentality, 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.

Weaknesses
Drivers are impatient with individuals who cannot keep their to their pace or make decisions as quickly as they can. Their no-nonsense attitude can damage relationships. Drivers can have difficulty working as team players because of their impatience and intolerance.

......INFLUENCE...... The Influencer, Persuader or Motivator
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 to 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.
Weaknesses
Their impulsiveness coupled with their desire to serve everyone's needs often means they lack good administration skills. They typically have a difficult time setting priorities and they reinterpret rules and regulations to suit themselves.

......STEADINESS.......The Steady Thinker
Characteristics

Thinkers are analytical and introspective. They 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. 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.
Weaknesses
Though thinkers are self-disciplined and efficient, they have difficulty setting priorities. They can get lost in the analysis at times and are unable to meet pressured deadlines. They lack the ability to be decisive at times. In addition, they would rather listen than talk.

......COMPLIANCE......The Compliant Supporter
Characteristics
Supporters are 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 counsellor's because of their patience and ability to listen while others vent their frustrations. Compassion and sensitivity are their greatest assets.
Weaknesses
Supporters often find it difficult to manage their time when they are constantly being interrupted by the needs of others who depend upon them. Their inability to say no at times puts them into situations that inevitably produce stress and anxiety. Their even-paced, highly predictable work effort also causes problems when speed of production is more important than quality of production. They are stressed when others demand change without giving them significant warning

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.