Introduction
In our continuing series on DiSC and personality profiles in the workplace, we delve into the dominant style or “D-style” profile. Carl Jung once said, “Until we make the unconscious conscious, it will direct our lives and we’ll call it fate.” DiSC aims to make the unconscious conscious, fostering self-awareness and enabling highly productive relationships in the workplace.
Contrary to the belief that teams are a company’s greatest asset, we maintain that the real asset lies in the ability to attract, develop, and retain the right people. This sentiment resonates with Jim Collins’ book “Good to Great,” where he emphasises the importance of getting the right people on the bus, in the right seats, and all aligned towards achieving the business’s goals. Dysfunctional teams pose the most significant obstacle to achieving these goals, and DiSC offers the antidote to this dysfunction.
The dominant style individuals, represented by the “D” in DiSC, prioritise results. They communicate decisively and forcefully, both directly and indirectly. Their internal voice consistently asks, “What’s in it for me? How will this help me achieve my goals?” Examples of well-known dominant style personalities include the late Steve Jobs and Michael Jordan, who exemplified determination, strong-will, and forceful leadership.
However, it’s crucial to consider how dominant style individuals interact with the opposing personality type, the supportive style or “S-style.” S-style individuals prioritise support and value relationships over results. They believe that great relationships yield favourable outcomes. Without self-awareness, supportive individuals may perceive dominant style individuals as blunt, insensitive, critical, or even rude, selfish, and dominating.
By raising self-awareness, a dominant style person can modify their communication style to empathise with a supportive style person, resulting in a more productive relationship. Similarly, if the supportive style person understands that the dominant style is not being rude but simply communicating in their characteristic manner, a more harmonious dynamic can be achieved.
Consider this example: a dominant style person, speaking to a supportive style person, requests a report by a specific time. To the dominant person, it may seem reasonable, but to the supportive person, it may appear as an abrupt disruption of their planned workload. By adjusting the communication approach and acknowledging the supportive person’s priorities, a more collaborative and effective conversation can take place.
Imagine the potential if both individuals underwent DiSC assessments and became self-aware of their respective communication styles. With this knowledge, they could forge a more productive relationship, leveraging each other’s strengths and aligning towards a common goal.
Empowering each individual in your organisation with a DiSC assessment can yield remarkable outcomes. Teams built on empathy, understanding, and trust, with productive and healthy debates, lead to commitment, accountability, and a relentless focus on results.
In our next installment, we will explore the influential style or “I-style” profile. Join us as we uncover more insights on how DiSC profiling can revolutionise workplace dynamics.
How Can DISC Help Your Business?
Unlocking your team’s full potential is crucial for success. As the first and only UK accountancy firm authorised by DiSC®, we offer a unique approach to building high-performing teams. DiSC® psychometric profiling unveils the “why” behind people’s behaviour, enabling you to harness their untapped potential. While many consider their team their greatest asset, we believe that your true strength lies in your ability to construct high-performing teams.
This involves attracting the right talent, fostering teamwork, inspiring with purpose, and upholding authentic values. DiSC® helps you read people, understand their behaviour, and create outstanding teams and leaders. It allows you to optimise your team’s performance, avoid recruitment pitfalls, and resolve conflicts effectively.
To reach the Next Level in your business, achieving Financial Mastery and nurturing a High Performing Team are essential. DiSC® is a natural choice for Ascentis and a key part of our success strategy.
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