Introduction to DISC Theory
DISC is a powerful framework for understanding human behaviour and improving workplace dynamics. At Team8, we use this theory in our unique behavioural Profiling tools—the Team8 DISC Profile and the TeacherDISC Profile—to help teams and organisations achieve peak performance. This article provides an introduction to DISC theory, offering practical tips on identifying behavioural styles and working effectively with different types of people. Importantly, DISC works with a person’s behavioural tendencies – observable and malleable, as opposed to personality, which is not always observable and is fixed.
What is DISC?
Both the Team8 DISC and TeacherDISC Profiles measure four distinct areas of behaviour, represented by the letters D, I, S, and C:
- Dominance (D): Fast-paced, direct, goal-oriented, and personally guarded. These individuals are focused on results and thrive on challenges.
- Influence (I): Fast-paced, direct, people-oriented, and personally open. They enjoy connecting with others and bring energy and enthusiasm to their interactions.
- Steadiness (S): Slower-paced, indirect, relationship-oriented, and personally open. Known for their reliability, they value harmony and take time to build trust.
- Conscientiousness (C): Slower-paced, indirect, task-oriented, and personally guarded. Detail-oriented and analytical, they aim for accuracy and excellence.
How to Identify the Different DISC Styles
To quickly and accurately identify someone’s DISC style, focus on two key behavioural dimensions:
- Are they more direct and fast-paced or indirect and slower-paced?
- Are they more guarded and task-oriented or open and people-oriented?
Using these questions, you can better understand and adapt to different styles. Here are some behavioural indicators to look for:
Direct and Fast-Paced (D and I Styles):
- Frequent gestures and voice intonation.
- Less patient and more competitive.
- Strong opinions and sustained eye contact.
- Active contributors in team settings.
Indirect and Slower-Paced (S and C Styles):
- Subtle body language and infrequent gestures.
- More patient and cooperative.
- Well-structured, detailed communication.
- Reserved expression of opinions.
Open and People-Oriented (I and S Styles):
- Expresses feelings and enthusiasm freely.
- Friendly, animated facial expressions.
- Conversations may wander but are engaging.
- Easy to get to know and warm in interactions.
Guarded and Task-Oriented (D and C Styles):
- Keeps feelings private and avoids physical contact.
- Focused on facts and specifics.
- Formal and proper communication.
- Conversations remain task-focused
Bringing it All Together
When you combine these dimensions, you get the four DISC behavioural styles:
- Dominance (D): Direct and guarded.
- Influence (I): Direct and open.
- Steadiness (S): Indirect and open.
- Conscientiousness (C): Indirect and guarded.
Understanding these styles allows you to adapt your communication and approach to improve collaboration, productivity, and relationships. While DISC is not a complete behavioural assessment, it provides invaluable insights into how people behave and are perceived in the workplace.
Why Choose Team8 DISC Profiling?
At Team8 People, we specialise in helping teams and organisations unlock their full potential using our proven DISC Profiling tools and tailored development programs and services. Whether you’re looking to improve team dynamics, enhance coaching effectiveness, or drive better business outcomes, our tailored solutions provide the insights and strategies you need to succeed.
Where to From Here?
To thrive in today’s competitive business environment, you need the best resources to support your people—your greatest asset. Explore Team8’s DISC Profiling tools, including the Team8 DISC and TeacherDISC Profiles, to elevate your team’s performance.
Contact us today to discover how we can help you achieve your goals and bring out the best in your team through our tailored services including DISC Accreditation training, DISC Workshops, and team and leadership development programs.
