The DISC Model of Human Behavior.
The DISC Model of Human Behavior is based on 2 foundational observations about how people normally behave:
Observation #1: Some people are more OUTGOING, while others are more RESERVED.
You can think of this trait as each person’s “internal motor” or “pace.” Some people always seem ready to “go” and “dive in” quickly. They engage their motor quickly. Others tend to engage their motor more slowly or more cautiously.
Observation # 2: Some people are more TASK-ORIENTED, while others are more PEOPLE-ORIENTED.
You can think of this as each person’s “external focus” or “priority” that guides them. Some people are focused on getting things done (tasks); others are more tuned-in to the people around them and their feelings.
With both observations, we want to emphasize that these behavioral tendencies are neither right or wrong or good or bad. They are just different. We are simply identifying normal behavior styles. People have different styles, and that is okay. We represent these 2 observations in the diagram below.
Notice the letters D, I, S and C appear in the 4 quadrants of the circle in the diagram above. You will also notice the descriptive terms in each of the 4 corners of the diagram. Now we can further describe each of the four main personality styles:
The Dominant “D” type – An outgoing, task-oriented individual will be focused on getting things done, accomplishing tasks, getting to the bottom line as quickly as possible and MAKING IT HAPPEN! (The key insight in developing a relationship with this type person is RESPECT and RESULTS.)
The Inspiring “I” type – An outgoing, people-oriented individual loves to interact, socialize and have fun. This person is focused on what others may think of him or her. (The key insight in developing a relationship with this type person is ADMIRATION and RECOGNITION.)
The Supportive “S” type – A reserved, people-oriented individual will enjoy relationships, helping or supporting other people and working together as a team. (The key insight in developing a relationship with this person is FRIENDLINESS and SINCERE APPRECIATION.)
The Cautious “C” type – A reserved, task-oriented individual will seek value, consistency and quality information. This person focuses on being correct and accurate. (The key insight in developing a relationship with this individual is TRUST and INTEGRITY.)
Everyone has some of all 4 of these tendencies at different times and in different situations. However, most people typically have 1 or 2 of these tendencies that seem to fit them well in their everyday behavior. And, on the other hand, 1 or 2 of these tendencies usually do not fit them well, and these tendencies may even seem “foreign” to their approach to life. The balance of these 4 tendencies shapes the way each person “sees” life and those around them.
This is just the beginning!
We spend years in school developing our intelligence to effectively use our mind. Developing our unique personality to effectively use our behavior is just as vital to successful living.
One of the dangers of learning about DISC is that you may think you now understand all there is to know about it. We have just scratched the surface of the dynamics involved in personality styles. Did you know there are not just 4 personality styles? We identify 41 specific personality blends that are all very different. Even within the 41 personality blends, there can be a wide variety of nuances.
Learn How to Work with Other People
(the next step is…):
Learn about the DISC Model of Human Behavior
Take a personality assessment (personality test) to determine your exact personality blend and personality profile
Study material that teaches you how to read and understand the personality of another person.
Study material that teaches you how to adapt YOURSELF to work better with others.