Strategies for Blending and Capitalizing

A "DISC Personality Test" is the most universally accepted test for determining human behavior, and the DISC Test is then compiled into meaningful and readable form called a DISC Personality Profile.

Research has shown that behavioral characteristics can be grouped together in four major divisions or styles. These are called DISC Personality Styles, and are the basis for the name of DISC. 

D=DOMINANCE

Remember a high "D" may want:

• Authority
• Prestige
• Varied activities
• A logical approach
• Challenges
• Freedom
• Difficult Assignments
• Opportunities for advancement

When communicating with a high "D":

• Provide direct answers, be brief and to the point
• Ask "what" questions, not how
• Stick to business
• Outline possibilities for results, solve problems
• Stress logic of ideas or approaches
• If time lines exist, relate them to the goal

I=INFLUENCER

Remember a high "I" may want:

• Social recognition
• People to talk to
• Freedom from control and detail
• A chance to motivate people
• Popularity
• Freedom of speech
• Recognition of abilities

When communicating with a high "I":

• Provide a friendly environment
• Provide a chance for them to verbalize about their ideas
• Provide ideas for transferring talk to action
• Provide time for fun activities
• Provide details in writing, but don't dwell on them
• Provide incentives for taking on tasks

S=STEADINESS

Remember a high "S" may want:

• Security of situation
• Appreciation
• Limited territory
• Areas of specialization
• Time to adjust 
• Identification with groups
• An established work pattern

When communicating with a high "S":

• Provide a sincere and agreeable environment
• Show sincere interest in them as a person
• Ask "how" questions to get their opinions
• Be patient when you ask for their input
• Present ideas in a non-threatening manner
• Give enough time to adjust to changes
• Clearly define their role and responsibilities
• Provide personal support

C=CONSCIENTIOUS

Remember a high "C" may want:

• Security
• Personal attention
• Exact job description
• To be part of the group
• No sudden changes
• Less responsibility
• Controlled work environment

When communicating with a high "C":

• Take time to prepare your ideas in advance
• Provide straight pros and cons of ideas
• Support your ideas with accurate data
• Don't spring changes or surprises on them
• Provide exact details of what the job entails
• Provide a step-by-step approach to the goal
• Be prepared to provide explanations very patiently

The DISC profiles allow us to identify how to successfully communicate with our patients, helping us to provide the best care possible.