The average workplace will have a mixture of personality types, from introverts and extroverts to those who are more task-oriented than people-oriented. Online DISC Profile recognises four main personality types that people identify with: dominance, influence, steadiness, and conscientiousness (DISC) which businesses need to familiarise themselves with.
Adam Stamm, co-owner of Online DISC Profile, says: “Business managers who recognise their employees’ different personality types can offer better support. For example, a task with many detailed elements that are expected to take a long time to fine-tune is perfect for someone with the ‘C-Style’ or Conscientious Personality. Suppose that individual isn’t available or that style isn’t represented on the team. In that case, the manager should recognise the stress the task could cause and appropriately manage the individual’s workload.”
“This would then be the opposite for someone who is a “dominance” personality and focuses less about the details and more about taking the lead on making quick decisions and getting results.”
The four DISC personality types:
- Dominance
Employees with this personality type will be decisive, competitive, and often direct in their communication. They will also be daring when it comes to problem-solving – something that comes naturally to them.
Whilst these employees will appreciate results, they tend not to be detail-oriented and prefer that others take care of the details. They can also sometimes become impatient or have poor listening skills.
Adam says: “Dominant personalities will find roles, where they can take ownership over projects and make decisions quickly.”
“Those working with dominant personalities should try and concisely relay work information, with only the necessary details being shared.”
- Influence
The “influence” personality type is defined by magnetism and collaboration. Employees with this trait will seek social recognition, are quick to trust others and will come across as upbeat and energetic.
In a workplace setting, they will be motivated by enthusiasm from both internal and external sources.
Adam says: “Influence personalities are naturally very social and always willing to be part of a team. When collaborating at work with fellow employees like this, be sure to share enthusiasm for their work and focus on the positive aspects.”
Offering social events at your company is a great way to bond, and those with “influence” personalities will thrive from this kind of activity.
- Steadiness
People with a “steadiness” personality type value consistency and harmony in their lives, and likely in the workplace. They are likely to give others the benefit of the doubt and like to play a supportive role within a team. A reminder to managers that employees with this personality type might have difficulty advocating for their own needs, or retreat to more passive roles, so reassuring that they can speak up will be a priority in their management.
Adam says: “If your business is going through dramatic changes, it’s important to reach out and connect with individuals who have the “steadiness” or S-Style personality because they value stability. This type of outreach can help them adapt to changes more quickly and allow them to feel more confident in their work.”
- Conscientious
People who rate primarily as “conscientious” are methodical and precise. They tend to be great critical thinkers and highly value objectivity. In the workplace, they are likely to stick with a problem until it’s solved and excel at paying attention to the small details. They also have a fear of being wrong and always default to looking at a situation in a logical manner.
These are just a few of the personality types, you can find out more about all 12 of the common profiles at Online DISC Profile’s blog.
With the next couple of months being busy for many businesses as the year draws to a close, it is crucial to understand your employees now more than ever to ensure a smooth workplace during the fast-paced season.
If your employees are unsure of their personality types, Online DISC Profile offers a free DISC test so they can learn more about themselves and their traits.