How to Write Emails People Actually Read Using DISC
If you work in Albany or travel between neighboring spots like Berkeley, Alameda, El Cerrito, Emeryville, or Oakland, you know that email is your main way to get things done. But does it ever feel like your messages get ignored or misunderstood? Using the DISC model can help you write emails that people actually want to read-and respond to.
DISC Basics for Better Emails
DISC is a simple personality assessment that helps you understand your own communication style and the style of others. It breaks down into four main types:
- D (Dominance): Direct, fast-paced, results-focused
- I (Influence): Social, enthusiastic, people-oriented
- S (Steadiness): Patient, supportive, detail-oriented
- C (Conscientiousness): Analytical, precise, careful
Knowing your own DISC profile and recognizing the preferences of your colleagues helps you write emails that speak their language.
Tip: If you haven’t done a DISC assessment yet, it’s worth it-especially if you interact with different teams around town or in the wider Bay Area.
Practical Email Tips for Each DISC Type
You probably work with folks who fit all four DISC styles. Here’s how you can adjust your emails to connect with each type:
| Type | What They Value | How to Write to Them |
|---|---|---|
| D (Dominance) | Efficiency, results, quick answers |
|
| I (Influence) | Connection, enthusiasm, recognition |
|
| S (Steadiness) | Support, clarity, consistency |
|
| C (Conscientiousness) | Accuracy, details, logic |
|
Try this: On your next email, pick out the receiver’s likely DISC style and tweak your message to match their preferences.
Make Your Emails Stand Out in Busy Inboxes
Whether you’re working from a co-working space in Emeryville or heading to a project site in Oakland, you know everyone’s inbox is overflowing. Use these DISC-based strategies to break through the noise:
- Subject lines matter: D-types like action words. S-types want details. I-types respond to fun or personal touches. C-types appreciate clarity.
- Keep it short for D and I styles: Summarize in the first sentence, then give details.
- Give context for S and C styles: Explain the “why” and “how” to help them feel comfortable and informed.
- Always end with a clear next step: State what you need and by when.
Takeaway: Next time you draft an email, think about who is reading it and what they value. One extra minute up front can save you hours of back-and-forth later.
Real-World Impact: What You’ll Notice
When you start writing emails with DISC in mind, you’ll notice:
- Faster, more helpful replies
- Less confusion about what’s needed
- Better relationships with colleagues, managers, and clients
- Less time chasing down missing information
Whether you’re coordinating across teams in Berkeley or heading out to Alameda for a meeting, clear communication gives you more time for what matters-and less stress about miscommunication.
Try it today: Pick one daily email and adjust it for the recipient’s DISC style. Track how quickly and positively they respond.
DISC Email Skills Go Everywhere You Do
Albany is a great spot for professionals who travel-maybe heading over to El Cerrito for lunch, up to Berkeley for a client meeting, or into Emeryville and Oakland for after-work events. The beauty of DISC is how portable and adaptable it is. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes to tailor your communication-by email or in person-no matter where your work takes you.
Next step: If you haven’t already, take a DISC assessment and talk with your team about sharing DISC profiles. It’s a quick way to make every email a little bit easier for everyone to read-and respond to.