As an international coach, it’s important for me to grow and develop constantly. I use personality and behavior assessments like DISC to gain valuable insights into my leadership style. The purpose of a DISC assessment is to categorize and represent various communication and behavioral styles and provide valuable insights into how individuals operate in different contexts.
The DISC communication style assessment designates individuals into four primary personality types or styles: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. Here’s what I learned from my results:
DOMINANCE AND INFLUENCE
According to my DISC assessment, my leadership style combines dominance and influence. I am driven, assertive, and results-oriented, allowing me to take charge and confidently make decisions. But what sets me apart is my ability to connect with others on a personal level, motivating and inspiring them to act.
DRIVEN BY COLLABORATION
One of the key findings from my DISC assessment was my natural inclination to lead through collaboration and consensus-building. I thrive in environments where everyone has a voice and is actively involved in decision-making. This allows me to tap into my team members’ diverse perspectives and ideas and creates a sense of ownership and commitment to achieving our goals.
AN ADAPTABLE LEADERSHIP STYLE
Another fascinating discovery was my ability to adapt my leadership style to different situations and individuals. I am not a one-size-fits-all kind of leader. Instead, I understand that each person has unique strengths and weaknesses. By tailoring my approach to fit their needs, I can bring out the best in my team members and create an environment where everyone can thrive.
Learn more about the value and purpose of a DISC assessment.
STRENGTH IN COMMUNICATION
My DISC communication style assessment also highlighted my excellent communication skills. I can convey my ideas clearly and concisely, making complex concepts easy to understand. I am fearless in asking thought-provoking questions and challenging the status quo, which encourages critical thinking and innovation within my team.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
The assessment revealed that I have a natural ability to lead by example. I am not just a talker but also a doer. I am not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get my hands dirty to do the job. This not only earns the respect and admiration of my team members but also sets the bar high for excellence and accountability.
THE CHALLENGES OF A DOMINANT LEADERSHIP STYLE
However, let’s be clear: my DISC assessment tells me I possess a dominant leadership style. This means that I am driven, assertive, and results-oriented. While these traits are precious in a leadership role, they also come with challenges.
As a dominant leader, I tend to be direct and straightforward in my communication, which can sometimes be abrasive or intimidating to others. To address this, I work on being more empathetic and actively listening to my communication approach. By actively listening to others’ perspectives and taking the time to understand their needs and concerns, I can better connect with them and create a more positive and productive work environment.
A FOCUS ON TEAM EMPOWERMENT
Another aspect highlighted by my DISC assessment was the need to delegate and empower my team. As a dominant leader, I tend to take control and make decisions independently. However, by recognizing the talents and capabilities of my team members and entrusting them with responsibilities, I can foster a sense of ownership and collaboration within the organization.
Additionally, the assessment revealed that I prefer action and moving quickly toward achieving goals. While this drive can be advantageous, it is also crucial to consider the impact this may have on others. I have been mindful of allowing sufficient time for others to provide input and emotionally process decisions, ensuring a more inclusive decision-making process.
THE PURPOSE OF A DISC ASSESSMENT FOR LEADERS
My DISC assessment has given me a valuable perspective on my leadership style and how it affects my communication with others. By recognizing my natural tendencies and consciously adapting to different communication styles, I am better equipped to connect with my team, avoid misunderstandings, and foster a positive and productive work environment.
Please remember that we should constantly strive to improve our communication skills and understand the impact of our leadership styles. Undertaking a DISC communication style assessment can be an incredibly beneficial step towards achieving this goal, as it provides valuable insights into our behavioral preferences and enables us to adapt our communication approach accordingly.
Schedule a DISC communication assessment with Ericka Kelly Enterprises to develop a better understanding of your leadership style.
