How DISC Helps You Decide: Email or Phone?
If you work in Syracuse or travel between nearby spots like Auburn, De Witt, Cortland, Fulton, or Oneida, you know that strong communication can make or break your day. Sometimes, a quick email is perfect. At other times, nothing beats picking up the phone. But how do you know what works best for your team, your clients, or your leadership circle? That’s where the DISC model comes in. With a little know-how, you can use DISC to tailor your approach for smoother, more productive conversations-no matter where your work takes you in Central New York.
DISC Basics: Why It Matters for Communication
DISC is a personality assessment tool that helps you understand your own style-and the style of those around you. It breaks down into four main types:
- D (Dominance): Direct, results-focused, likes to move fast
- I (Influence): Outgoing, enthusiastic, values relationships
- S (Steadiness): Patient, thoughtful, prefers stability
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-oriented, analytical, values accuracy
Knowing your DISC style-and the styles of those you work with-helps you choose the right way to connect. Here’s how you can use this knowledge to decide between email and phone for your daily interactions.
When DISC Recommends Email
You probably send emails all day. But not every personality style loves a full inbox. Before you hit send, consider these situations where email usually shines:
- Conscientious (C) and Steady (S) styles: These teammates appreciate clear, organized, and written communication. If you need to share details, instructions, or complex information, email gives them time to review and respond thoughtfully.
- Recapping decisions: After a meeting, summarize next steps by email. This helps everyone-especially S and C types-stay on track and avoid confusion.
- Scheduling or routine updates: Quick updates, calendar invites, or confirming logistics work well by email, especially for those who prefer not to be interrupted.
Immediate Tip: If your message is detailed or requires a record, email is often your best bet-especially with those who value accuracy and time to process.
When DISC Suggests Picking Up the Phone
Some conversations just work better live, especially with certain personality types. Here’s when a quick call trumps a long email:
- Dominant (D) and Influential (I) styles: These folks appreciate real-time interaction. If you need to make a quick decision, brainstorm, or resolve something urgent, a call gets you there faster.
- Building rapport: If you’re working with a new partner or client, hearing your voice builds trust-especially important for I types who value connection.
- Handling sensitive topics: If you’re giving feedback, coaching, or navigating conflict, a call or video chat adds empathy and reduces misunderstandings.
Immediate Tip: If your message is personal, complex, or time-sensitive, a phone call can save you hours of back-and-forth-and strengthen your relationships.
DISC in Action: How to Decide On the Go
You may find yourself dashing from a meeting downtown in Syracuse to a client visit in Auburn or a team lunch in De Witt. Use these quick questions to guide your choice:
- Does this person prefer details or fast action? Details = email. Fast action = phone.
- Is the topic sensitive or personal? Sensitive = phone. Routine = email.
- Do we need a record of this exchange? Yes = email. No = phone.
- Are we on a tight deadline? Yes = phone. No = email.
With practice, you’ll start to recognize the best method for each situation-and each person-whether you’re collaborating on a project in Cortland, checking in with a client in Fulton, or managing your team from Oneida.
Try This Today
Think about your next three conversations. Before you default to email or phone, pause and consider the other person’s DISC style. Could a quick call clear things up? Would a detailed email help them respond on their own time? By matching your communication style to theirs, you’ll see fewer missed signals and more real progress-whether you’re in Syracuse or on the road to your next meeting.