DISC Profile | Are you an INFLUENCER? [Part Four]

By Steve Wiggers
Managing Director of Scala Institute

In part three of this series of DISC Profiling (accessed here), I provided an insight into the Dominant (D-Style). D-styles are dominant and driven individuals who thrive by shaking up the environment and overcoming opposition to get results. They make things happen in the world.

Today is all about the Influencer (and won’t they be pleased to hear that?!)

 I: is for INFLUENCER

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Why fit in when

you were born

to stand out 

~ Dr. Seuss

The fast paced people-oriented “I’s” are extroverted and outgoing, and people-oriented.

They tend to be inspiringimpressionableinteractiveimpressive and involved. They are typically vocal and animated. They like to engage others in conversation. They often energise others and are usually popular because of their social skills and charm

They like to interact with others and meet new people. They do not like to focus on details, or spend a lot of time by themselves. Others tend to perceive I-styles as very friendly, enthusiastic and animated.

I-styles are the influencing and interactive individuals who shake up their environment by bringing others into alliance with one another. They know what they want, align everyone together to get it done, and want everyone to like them as they move forward. Social acceptance is very important for I-styles – they like to be liked.

Note: Some of these descriptors will elicit different responses from different styles.

Note: Some of these descriptors will elicit different responses from different styles.

For example, words such as “talkative” and “open” can be viewed as somewhat negative adjectives by individuals who are not I-styles. However, strong I-styles are actually very comfortable with these adjectives.

In fact, they may be quite proud that they possess these behavioural traits.

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Typical Characteristics

People who have both Outgoing and People-oriented traits often exhibit INSPIRING and INTERACTIVE behaviours. 

They usually focus on interacting with people, having fun, and/or creating excitement. 

People with the I-style place an emphasis on shaping the environment by influencing or persuading others.

A person with an I-style:

  • may be limited by being impulsive and disorganised and having lack of follow-through
  • is described as convincing, magnetic, enthusiastic, warm, trusting and optimistic
  • prioritises taking action, collaboration, and expressing enthusiasm
  • is motivated by social recognition, group activities, and relationships
  • may fear loss of influence, disapproval and being ignored
  • values coaching and counselling, freedom of expression and democratic relationships

Tips to Recognising an “I” in the Workplace

  • Spontaneous actions and decisions
  • Talks a lot
  • Open and friendly
  • Dislikes being alone
  • Can lack focus
  • Tends to get caught up in dreams
  • Seeks public recognition and acknowledgment
  • Good persuasive skills
  • Animated
  • Unorganised
  • May focus on emotions rather than facts
  • Does not pay close attention
  • Changes subject quickly in conversation
  • May ask the same question multiple times
  • Is tactile
  • Works quickly and excitedly with others
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Goals:

  • victory with flair
  • friendship and happiness
  • authority and prestige status symbols
  • popularity

Will need to expend more energy to:

  • follow-through completely 
  • research all the facts
  • speak directly and candidly 
  • stay focused for long periods
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Communication Tips:

When communicating with the I style individual, share your experiences, allow the I style person time to ask questions and talk themselves, focus on the positives, avoid overloading them with details, and don’t interrupt them

Do’s

  • Maintain positive atmosphere
  • Help to achieve
  • popularity/recognition
  • Allow to express themselves
  • Take time to chat and talk
  • Be more expressive
  • Be more enthusiastic
  • Focus on the big picture
  • Focus on the people aspects
  • Get involved in the process

Dont’s

  • Talk about too many details
  • Fail to socialise
  • Bring up negative issues
  • Fail to have fun
  • Set restrictions
  • Be too practical
  • Be pessimistic

Remember, DISC is an awareness tool. For self and those around you. Effective communicators are incredibly influential and successful in everything they do. If you believe you are an Influencer or work with an Influencer, this article provides insight into what to identify and how to adjust to become more effective in your communication.

Next up… the STEADY! Stay tuned for Part Five in this DISC Profile series to learn more about how to identify and communicate with the Reserved and People-Focused individuals in our team.

 
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