Working With Different DISC Styles on One Team
Every team is a mix of unique personalities. If you’ve ever worked in Livermore or commuted in from Pleasanton, Dublin, Fremont, San Ramon, or Danville, you know how important it is to get along and get things done-especially when everyone brings a different approach to the table. The DISC model can help you understand how to blend these styles so your team doesn’t just get by, but actually enjoys working together.
What DISC Styles Mean for Your Team
The DISC model breaks down behavior into four main styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Here’s how they typically show up at work:
- D (Dominance): Quick to take charge, likes results, values efficiency.
- I (Influence): Energizes the group, values communication, loves new ideas.
- S (Steadiness): Reliable and calm, values teamwork, supports others.
- C (Conscientiousness): Focuses on quality, pays attention to details, values accuracy.
If you can spot these styles on your team, you’re already halfway to better communication and teamwork. Your next step is to use this knowledge to work together more smoothly.
Takeaway: Notice how your colleagues approach work and start to see their DISC style in action. This awareness is the foundation for better teamwork.
Why Blending Styles Makes Teams Stronger
Teams that blend DISC styles well enjoy real, day-to-day benefits. Think about a project at your Livermore office or a group meeting before heading out for lunch in downtown Pleasanton. When you recognize and value different styles, you:
- Reduce misunderstandings and wasted time
- Tap into everyone’s strengths
- Balance speed with quality
- Get creative solutions by hearing every voice
- Make meetings more productive and less draining
Tip: At your next team meeting, try asking for ideas from each person in a way that matches their style. For example, ask a D to share their top priority, or an S what would make the process smoother for everyone.
How to Work with Every DISC Style
You don’t have to change who you are-just adapt a little. Here’s how to get the best from every style on your team:
- With D’s: Be direct and brief. Respect their need for results.
- With I’s: Give space for ideas and conversation. Recognize their energy.
- With S’s: Be steady, show appreciation, and let them support the group.
- With C’s: Be clear and specific. Respect their need for details and quality.
Next Step: Think of one coworker with a very different style from yours. Try using a tip above in your next conversation with them.
Real-Life Team Wins With DISC
Maybe you work in a tech startup in Fremont or a local business in Dublin. When different DISC styles come together, you see things like:
- Faster decisions when a D and C team up-one pushes for action, the other checks for accuracy.
- More creative brainstorming when I’s and S’s collaborate-fresh ideas get grounded in practical plans.
- Better client meetings in San Ramon or Danville when everyone plays to their strengths-someone leads, someone builds rapport, and someone makes sure nothing’s missed.
Takeaway: Every DISC style brings value. The trick is to make space for each, so you can tackle any challenge together.
Make DISC Blending Part of Your Routine
If your team travels between Livermore, Pleasanton, or neighboring cities for client visits or training, DISC skills travel well. Use them on the road, in Zoom calls, or at the office. Over time, these habits pay off with stronger relationships and better results.
- Start meetings by asking about project expectations (great for D’s and C’s)
- Add a few minutes for open conversation or sharing wins (I’s love this)
- Check in one-on-one after big discussions (S’s appreciate the follow-up)
- Send out clear agendas and notes (C’s will thank you for it)
Action Step: Pick one new DISC habit to try out this week-whether you’re in Livermore, catching coffee in Pleasanton, or driving over from Fremont. Watch how even small changes help everyone feel heard and respected.
Start Blending, Start Liking Your Team More
Working with different DISC styles doesn’t just help you get the job done-it makes work more enjoyable. Whether you’re leading a team, managing a project, or just trying to get through Monday in Livermore, using DISC is a practical way to build trust, avoid unnecessary conflict, and actually look forward to working with your team. Start blending those styles, and you’ll find your team just works better together.