How can you tailor your communication style to engage and motivate different personalities?

1 What is DISC?

DISC is a behavioral assessment tool that categorizes people into four main personality types: Dominant, Influential, Steady, and Conscientious. Each type has its own strengths, weaknesses, motivations, and communication preferences. By understanding your own and your team members' DISC profiles, you can tailor your communication style to match their needs and avoid potential conflicts.

2 How to communicate with Dominant personalities

Dominant personalities are driven by results, challenges, and action. They are confident, assertive, and decisive, yet can be impatient, aggressive, and intolerant of ambiguity. When communicating with them, it's best to be clear and direct while avoiding unnecessary details or fluff. Focus on the bottom line, the goals, and the outcomes to show how your ideas or suggestions will help them achieve their objectives. Give them options instead of orders and respect their autonomy and authority. Acknowledge their achievements, but also challenge them to improve by providing constructive feedback and positive reinforcement. Don't be afraid to disagree or debate with them either.

4 How to communicate with Steady personalities

Steady personalities are driven by stability, cooperation, and loyalty. They are known to be calm, patient, and dependable, but can also be passive and resistant to change. When communicating with Steady personalities, it's important to be respectful, polite, and sincere. Focus on the process, the team, and the harmony. Show them how your ideas or suggestions will help them maintain their routines, support their colleagues, and avoid disruptions. Provide security instead of surprises by respecting their need for consistency and predictability. Acknowledge their efforts while also helping them grow; offer appreciation and reassurance but also help them address any fears or challenges they may have.