Choosing Between Email and Phone: DISC Helps You Decide
If you work in or around Baldwin, you know that clear communication makes your day go smoother-whether you’re working with teams in Bellmore, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre, or Valley Stream. But when does it make sense to send an email, and when should you pick up the phone? The DISC model gives you practical answers. By understanding different communication styles, you can choose the best way to connect, save time, and get better results.
DISC Styles: Why They Matter for Communication
The DISC model helps you see how people prefer to share and receive information. You might recognize yourself or your colleagues in one or more of these styles:
- D (Dominance): Direct, decisive, and values efficiency.
- I (Influence): Social, upbeat, and enjoys connection.
- S (Steadiness): Thoughtful, patient, and prefers stability.
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-oriented, careful, and values accuracy.
Knowing these styles helps you decide when to hit “send” on an email and when to make a call.
Tip: Think about your own style and the style of the person you’re reaching out to before choosing your communication method.
Email or Phone? Matching Your Message to the DISC Style
Every day, you juggle different tasks and conversations-sometimes with people from other offices or even on your commute between meetings in nearby towns. Here’s how you can use the DISC model to decide which communication method fits your situation:
- D-Style: If you’re dealing with someone who likes things direct and quick, a short, clear email works well for updates or decisions. But, if there’s a problem to solve or a fast answer needed, a phone call can save everyone time.
- I-Style: These folks value energy and connection. If you need to share good news or brainstorm, pick up the phone. For information that’s just FYI, a friendly, upbeat email is fine.
- S-Style: If your teammate prefers steadiness and time to process, emails let them review details and reply thoughtfully. For check-ins or support, a call can show you care and build trust.
- C-Style: When accuracy matters, email gives space to share detailed instructions or data. If you need to clarify something complex or answer questions, a phone call can help avoid confusion.
Action: Before you reach out, pause and match your approach to the person’s DISC style for better results.
How to Decide: Quick Questions to Ask Yourself
- Is this urgent or sensitive? Pick up the phone for fast answers or important topics.
- Is there a lot of detail? Use email for complex info, but call if you sense questions will follow.
- Do you need a record? Email works best when you want to keep a paper trail.
- Is the person new to you? A phone call helps build rapport, especially across teams or departments.
Try this: Next time you’re unsure, ask yourself these questions before communicating. You’ll notice fewer misunderstandings and quicker responses.
Real-World Wins: DISC in Everyday Work Life
People in Baldwin and neighboring spots like Freeport or Lynbrook know that a well-timed call can smooth over confusion, while a well-written email keeps projects moving. Maybe you’re working with a partner in Rockville Centre who always picks up the phone, or a team member in Valley Stream who prefers detailed emails. By using DISC, you respect everyone’s style and get more done-without the back-and-forth.
- Weekly updates: Email helps you keep everyone in the loop, especially if your team is spread out.
- Project troubleshooting: A quick call clears things up fast-no need for a long chain of emails.
- Building new relationships: Starting with a call helps set a positive tone and makes it easier to follow up over email later.
Next step: Try using what you know about the DISC model the next time you’re deciding how to reach out-especially if you’re working with someone in a new area or office.
Ready to Communicate Smarter?
When you use the DISC model, you cut down on confusion and connect better with your colleagues, whether they’re in Baldwin or a nearby town. It’s not about overthinking every message-it’s about using what you know to choose the right tool for the job. Try it out this week: notice who responds best to emails, who prefers a quick call, and how your own style influences your choices. You’ll see stronger teamwork and smoother conversations, no matter where your day takes you.