DISC Profile | Are you DOMINANT? [Part Three]
In part two of this series of DISC Profiling (accessed here), I provided techniques on how to use the DISC profile system to identify the 4 behavioural profiles that makeup D.I.S.C.
In the upcoming articles, I will cover each of the behavioural types in more detail – stay tuned for some interesting insight into yourself and the people around you!
D: is for DOMINANT
Kid, you’ll move mountains.
~ Dr. Seuss
The D-style is the most aggressive and assertive of the four styles.
Focussed on the task, and moving at a swift pace – people who are high in “D” are extroverted and outgoing and task–oriented. They tend to be direct, decisive, driven and demanding.
They typically have high confidence, are self–motivated, and are comfortable taking risks. They like to focus on the big picture, not details. People who have high “D” are frequently found in leadership positions.
D-styles are very competitive and results-oriented. As a result, others may perceive D-styles as being too aggressive, blunt and even rude. Under pressure, they can appear to have a lack of concern about others. They do not want to lose control. D-styles want to be in charge.
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.
D-styles must be confronted with direct questions and answers, and do not beat around the bush! They say, “Bring me solutions – I know what the problems are!” D-styles may not use your solutions, but they respect you for coming up with answers.
Note: Some of these descriptors will elicit different responses from different styles.
For example, words such as “tough” and “demanding” can be viewed as somewhat negative adjectives by individuals who are not D-styles. However, strong D-styles are actually very comfortable with these adjectives.
In fact, they may be quite proud that they possess these behavioural traits!
Typical Characteristics
People who have both Outgoing and Task-oriented traits often exhibit DOMINANT and DIRECT behaviours.
They usually focus on results, problem-solving, and the bottom line.
People with the D style place an emphasis on shaping the environment by overcoming opposition to accomplish results.
A person with a D-style:
- is motivated by winning, competition and success.
- prioritises accepting challenges, taking action and achieving immediate results.
- is described as direct, demanding, forceful, strong-willed, driven, and determined.
- is fast-paced, and self-confident.
- may be limited by lack of concern for others, impatience and open scepticism.
- may fear being seen as vulnerable or being taken advantage of.
- values competency, action, concrete results, personal freedom and challenges.
Tips to Recognising a “D” in the Workplace:
- Is impatient
- Interrupts you
- Makes fast decisions
- Wants to be in control
- Gets it done now and dislikes inaction
- Not interested in detail
- May appear aggressive
- Likes freedom to manage him/herself and others
- Independent
- Competitive – wants to win
- Low tolerance for emotion
- Is demanding
- Becomes irritated easily
- Is direct, says what they think
- Focuses on the big picture
- States own opinions as facts
- Works quickly and impressively alone
Goals:
- Unique accomplishments
- New opportunities
- Control of audience
- Independence
Will need to expend more energy to:
- show patience
- display sensitivity
- get into the details
- allow deliberation
Communication Tips:
When communicating with the D-style individuals, give them the bottom line, be brief, focus your discussion narrowly, avoid making generalizations, refrain from repeating yourself, and focus on solutions rather than problems.
Do’s
- Be direct
- Provide alternatives
- Ensure they “win”
- Give immediate feedback
- Concentrate on the subject
- Act quickly
- Let them speak and listen to them
- Focus on issues
- Show interest
- Provide direct answers
Dont’s
- Go into all the details
- Provide too much information
- Try to control the situation
- Talk too much
- Lose focus
- Slow down
- Take issues personally
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 Dominant or work with someone Dominant, this article provides insight into what to identify and how to adjust to become more effective in your communication.
If you’re a Dominant leader, consider how your behavioural bias could impact the team positively and negatively. Remember to adjust to get the most out of the people around you.
If your leader is Dominant, adjust your communication to suit their style to increase your rapport and influence.
Next up… the INFLUENCER! Stay tuned for Part Four in this DISC Profile series to learn more about how to identify and communicate with the Outgoing and People-Focused individuals in our team.
This is an article for Business Blindspots Tasmania. To ensure you receive our regular updates from expert business advisers across a range of areas follow our LinkedIn group or connect with our Facebook page to stay up to date.
