Harnessing the Power of DISC in your Australian Organisation or Government Department
Collaboration is vital for any organisation’s success. Yet achieving true teamwork can be more challenging than it sounds. Here, John Wright Senior Partner from The DISC Agency explores how each DISC behavioural style brings unique strengths to the team dynamic. Using colour-coded DISC profiles popularised in Thomas Erikson’s book Surrounded by Idiots, John will highlight the unique qualities and challenges each style contributes to the workplace.
The DISC model categorises behaviour into four styles—Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance—offering teams valuable insights into communication preferences, strengths, and potential challenges. When team members understand each other’s DISC styles, collaboration flows more smoothly, leveraging each individual’s strengths for efficient teamwork.
DISC Profiles in Action
Dominance (Red): The Driving Force
Dominant (Red) individuals are action-oriented, determined, and highly goal-focused. Often natural leaders, they are decisive and quick to take charge. It’s essential to give them the space to express their ideas, as they frequently bring innovative solutions to the table.
Characteristics of Red Style:
- Qualities: Goal-oriented, assertive, self-starter
- Pitfalls: Impatience, overpowering, taking on too much
- Under Stress: May come across as authoritarian or controlling
Tips for Communicating with Red Style: Stay direct and focus on high-level outcomes rather than details. Offer options for them to decide and avoid ambiguous language.
Influence (Yellow): The Motivator
Influence (Yellow) types are social, enthusiastic, and naturally inspirational. They bring energy and optimism to the team, excelling in roles that require collaboration and motivation. Allowing space for Yellow team members to share their ideas promotes a positive and supportive environment.
Characteristics of Yellow Style:
- Qualities: Convincing, enthusiastic, motivating
- Pitfalls: Impulsivity, lack of structure, not completing tasks
- Under Stress: May become overly optimistic or disorganised
Tips for Communicating with Yellow Style: Keep discussions positive, focusing on opportunities and big-picture ideas. Avoid diving into minute details; Yellow types prefer to talk through high-level concepts.
Steadiness (Green): The Stabiliser
Steady (Green) individuals are reliable, supportive, and excel in creating harmony within teams. They value stability and are excellent listeners, helping to maintain balance and morale.
Characteristics of Green Style:
- Qualities: Loyal, patient, team-oriented
- Pitfalls: Difficulty setting limits, resistance to change, passive
- Under Stress: May withdraw, become stubborn, or resist change
Tips for Communicating with Green Style: Approach Green types with appreciation and empathy, providing clear expectations. Avoid putting them on the spot in unfamiliar settings; they work best with clear guidance and consistency.
Compliance (Blue): The Analytical Expert
Compliance (Blue) team members are analytical, detail-oriented, and process-driven. They are excellent in roles requiring accuracy and a methodical approach, and they value structure and precision.
Characteristics of Blue Style:
- Qualities: Orderly, objective, meticulous
- Pitfalls: Overly critical, indecisive, overly focused on details
- Under Stress: May become overly nit-picky or withdrawn
Tips for Communicating with Blue Style: Stick to facts and avoid embellishments. Blues prefer a logical approach and may need time to process details. Respect their need for thoroughness and avoid rushing them.
The Power of a Diverse DISC Team
A high-performing team often consists of a balanced mix of DISC styles. For example, a project led by a Dominant (Red) individual might be energised by an Influencer (Yellow) who motivates others, steadied by a Steady (Green) team member providing harmony, and refined by a Compliant (Blue) member ensuring accuracy and quality. By embracing these diverse strengths, organisations can create a truly dynamic team environment where each member’s talents shine.
Benefits of DISC in Your Australian Organisation or Government Department.
DISC Profile analysis offers benefits across various areas:
- HR: Matches individuals to roles that align with their natural strengths.
- Recruitment: Ensures the job profile suits a candidate’s style.
- Team Development: Identifies strengths and potential growth areas.
- Training: Improves team awareness and mutual respect.
- Coaching: Tailors support to individuals’ behavioural needs.
Unlock Your Team’s Potential with DISC
Curious about your predominant DISC style or that of your team? Connect with The DISC Agency to explore DISC Profiles that foster understanding, build synergy, and support growth within your organisation.
Call 1300 690 469 or email support@thediscagency.com.au
