How to Get Along When Your Team Has All Four DISC Styles
If you’ve ever felt like your team is speaking four different languages, you’re not alone. When you have a mix of DISC personality styles on one team, communication can get tricky. But with the right approach, you can turn those differences into strengths. Here’s how you-whether you’re in leadership, management, or just want to get more out of your group-can use DISC to create a team that actually likes working together.
What Blending DISC Styles Really Means
The DISC model sorts people into four main styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Each style brings something valuable to the table. You probably know folks who always want to get to the point (D), others who keep the mood light (I), some who make sure everyone’s heard (S), and a few who want all the details right (C).
On a blended team, you’ll see every flavor of communication, decision-making, and problem-solving. While it might seem easier to work with people just like you, research and experience show that diverse teams, when managed well, get better results. Here’s why:
- Different strengths cover more ground. You avoid blind spots when each style has a voice.
- Better conflict resolution. Teams learn to see issues from multiple angles, not just their own.
- More creative solutions. With varied perspectives, your group is less likely to fall into groupthink.
Try this: Next time you’re setting up a project, ask each team member how they like to communicate and make decisions. Write it down and refer to it during meetings.
Common Challenges You’ll See-and How to Handle Them
Mixing DISC styles can bring out the best-and worst-in a team. Here are a few sticky spots you might run into, plus practical ways to keep things running smoothly:
- Fast vs. slow pacing: Ds and Is want to move quickly, while Ss and Cs like to double-check. Set expectations up front for deadlines and check-ins so nobody feels rushed or stalled.
- Direct vs. indirect communication: Ds and Cs can be blunt, which might unsettle Is and Ss. Remind your team to check their tone and ask clarifying questions if something feels off.
- Big picture vs. details: Is and Ds see the forest; Cs and Ss see the trees. Assign roles based on these strengths-let the big-picture folks set direction, and details people handle follow-through.
Tip: Use DISC language openly in your meetings. For example, “I know our C types want more data here, so let’s pause and gather those numbers.” This makes everyone feel seen and understood.
Making DISC Work in Your Team’s Everyday Life
To make DISC more than just a training buzzword, you need to put it into action. Here’s how you can do that without adding extra meetings or paperwork:
- Post your team’s DISC profiles in your workspace or digital platform.
- Start meetings by checking in on what each style needs that week. Maybe your I types need a little social time, or your S folks want more clarity on roles.
- Rotate leadership roles. Give each style a chance to lead meetings or manage parts of a project. This builds empathy and appreciation for each perspective.
Action step: Pick one upcoming meeting to ask, “How can we use our different DISC styles to make this project better?” See what ideas your team shares.
Traveling for DISC Training? Here’s Where You Might Be Coming From
If your team is based in Harker Heights or you’re traveling from nearby areas like Killeen, Temple, Belton, Copperas Cove, or Gatesville, you know the value of working with people from all walks of life. Whether you’re coming down I-35 from Temple or heading over from Copperas Cove, bringing together different DISC styles can feel a lot like blending the best of Central Texas: everyone adds their own special flavor.
When you join a DISC workshop or training, you’ll notice that folks from each area bring their own way of communicating and working together. Lean into those differences-they’re your secret weapon. The more you practice, the more you’ll appreciate what each style brings to your team, much like appreciating both barbecue and breakfast tacos at the same table.
Next step: Pair up with a colleague who has a different DISC style for your next road trip or training session. You’ll both learn something new and probably have a more interesting ride.
Key Takeaways for Your Team
When you blend DISC styles on one team, you open the door to stronger collaboration, fewer misunderstandings, and more creative problem-solving. It’s all about recognizing what each person brings and making space for those strengths to shine.
- Use DISC as a shared language to talk about differences
- Assign roles based on strengths, not just titles
- Check in regularly about what’s working and what’s not
Ready to see the benefits for yourself? Take one small step this week-whether it’s talking about DISC in your next meeting or pairing up with someone whose style is different from yours. The more you practice blending those styles, the more your team will enjoy working together-and the better results you’ll see.