This article is part of a weekly series on how to build better working relationships using the behavioral assessment tool, DISC to grow the business and career you want.
DISC measures your personality and behavioral style. It does not measure intelligence, aptitude, mental health or values. It describes human behavior in various situations, for example how you respond to challenges (Dominance); how you influence others (Influence); your preferred pace, i.e. decisive, need time to process (Steadiness); and how you respond to rules and procedures (Conscientiousness).
The goal of DISC is to help users build and maximize productive relationships. Users don’t need to change their personality traits; they need to recognize what drives and motivates themselves and others and determine the best ways to effectively interact with them.
If you don't know your DISC Style and want to take an Assessment, click HERE.
What You Need to Know
Sometimes reactions like resistance to change, withdrawal and inflexibility are really about someone's deeper fears that may have nothing to do with the situation at hand. What may look like aggression, withdrawal or being unfocused, may very well be rooted in some type of longstanding fear. Knowing what each DISC Style tends to fear will help you have a more productive response when it shows up. Here's what you need to know about what each DISC Style fears.
Dominance – High "D" Style
Closely related to the Dominance Styles' goals are their fears: falling into a routine, being taken advantage of or losing control, and looking "soft." They may go to extremes to prevent those fears from materializing. They may act impatiently in ways others may not agree with, but they make things happen with great urgency.
Influence – High "I" Style
An Influence Style's biggest fear is social rejection and lack of acceptance - whether from appearing uninvolved, unattractive, unsuccessful, or unacceptable to others. These frightening forms of personal denial threaten the Influence Style's core need for approval and acknowledgment. Consequently, they may go to extremes to avoid embarrassment, lack of inclusion, or loss of social recognition and admiration.
Steadiness – High "S" Style
Related to the Steadiness Style's goal of keeping things predictable and stable is an accompanying fear of sudden change and disorganization. Consequently, any disruption in their routine patterns can cause distress in the Steadiness Style. Fearing sudden changes, they are naturally concerned with what may happen as a result of being unprepared. A general worry is that the unknown may be even more unpleasant than the present. They need to think and plan for changes. Finding elements of consistency within those changes can help minimize their stress and identify specific assurances required to cope with such demands with grace and constancy.
Conscientiousness – High "C" Style
The Conscientiousness Style's biggest fears stem from a desire for perfection and accuracy. The C style does not want to do anything or get anything wrong. Often responsible for subjectivity and errors, these thinkers fear uncontrolled emotions and irrational acts (in self and others) that relate to challenging their goals. This type strives to avoid mistakes at all costs.
What You Can Do Next
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