When to Email and When to Call: Using DISC to Improve Communication
If you lead a team or work with others, you know that choosing the right way to communicate can make work a whole lot easier. Sometimes, sending an email is perfect. Other times, picking up the phone or scheduling a quick call gets better results. The DISC model gives you a simple guide for making these decisions, helping you build stronger connections, whether you’re in West Sacramento or traveling to nearby areas like Davis, Elk Grove, Roseville, Woodland, or Carmichael.
DISC Basics: What Drives Communication Preferences
The DISC assessment sorts people into four main personality styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Each style has different communication needs. When you match your approach to the other person’s DISC style, your message is more likely to hit home. Here’s what each style tends to prefer:
- D (Dominance): Direct, brief, action-focused communication. Prefers quick calls or concise emails.
- I (Influence): Social, enthusiastic, and enjoys personal connection. Likes phone calls or video chats.
- S (Steadiness): Calm, friendly, values trust, and likes time to process. Responds well to thoughtful emails or relaxed calls.
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-oriented, logical, and prefers clear, well-structured information. Favors written emails with specifics.
If you know your colleague’s DISC profile, use this as a shortcut for choosing how to reach out. If you don’t know it yet, pay attention to how they communicate with you-you’ll pick up clues.
Tip: Ask your team to take a DISC assessment. It’s an easy way to build self-awareness and improve everyday communication.
When Email Makes Sense
Email isn’t just convenient; it fits some DISC styles better than others. Use email when:
- You’re sharing detailed information or instructions (great for C and S styles).
- The topic isn’t urgent and people need time to respond (especially for S and C types).
- You want a written record for future reference.
- The recipient prefers processing information on their own time.
For example, if you’re planning a project with a colleague in Roseville and you know they like to review details, a well-organized email gives them what they need. Keep it clear, use bullet points, and highlight deadlines if you’re working with a D style.
Takeaway: Match your message to the recipient’s need for details, time, and structure. Email is your friend when clarity and documentation matter.
When to Pick Up the Phone
Some situations-and some DISC styles-call for a more personal touch. A phone call works best when:
- You need a quick decision or fast feedback (D styles love this).
- The conversation is sensitive, nuanced, or could cause confusion in writing.
- You’re building a relationship or motivating someone (I styles respond well).
- There’s a risk of misunderstanding if you rely on email alone.
Consider a scenario: If you’re collaborating with a teammate in Davis who always seems energized by conversation, a call or video chat can boost connection and clarity. For S styles, a call can help build trust and show you value their input-just give them space to share their thoughts.
Tip: If you’re unsure, ask the person how they prefer to communicate for different types of conversations.
Traveling for Work? DISC Still Applies
If your work sends you from West Sacramento to nearby cities like Elk Grove, Woodland, Carmichael, or Davis, you’ll meet people with different preferences. Whether you’re visiting a partner in Woodland or a client in Carmichael, use DISC to guide your approach:
- Before you travel, send a brief email to confirm details and set expectations-especially if your contact prefers information in writing.
- During your visit, suggest a quick call or in-person meeting if you sense your colleague values direct, personal interaction.
- Follow up with an email summary, especially if you discussed next steps or important project details.
DISC isn’t just for your home office. It’s a practical tool you can take anywhere in California to create smoother, more effective communication.
Takeaway: Traveling? Use DISC to adjust your style and build connections, no matter where your work takes you.
Ready to Put DISC Into Action?
Using DISC to decide when to email and when to call isn’t complicated. It’s about meeting people where they are and making every interaction count. Next time you’re unsure, think about the other person’s DISC style-and watch your communication get easier, whether you’re working at your desk in West Sacramento or meeting a client in Roseville.
- Notice how your team communicates and adapt your approach this week.
- Try asking one colleague how they prefer to get updates or feedback.
- Consider taking a DISC assessment as a team to improve your results together.
With DISC, every email or phone call becomes a chance to build stronger relationships and get better results-right here in your region and beyond.