Small Changes Managers Make with DISC for Better 1:1 Meetings
If you’re leading a team in Baraboo or regularly meeting with staff from Madison, Portage, Reedsburg, Sun Prairie, or Waunakee, you’ve probably noticed that every 1:1 conversation is a little different. Sometimes they’re a breeze. Other times, you walk away wondering what just happened. The truth is, a few tiny tweaks rooted in the DISC model can make your 1:1s more effective and a lot less stressful.
DISC Basics: Why It Matters for Managers
DISC is a personality assessment that helps you understand how people prefer to communicate and work. As a manager, DISC gives you a practical roadmap for handling different personalities-whether you’re coaching, giving feedback, or just checking in.
- D (Dominance): Direct, results-focused, likes action
- I (Influence): Outgoing, people-oriented, thrives on collaboration
- S (Steadiness): Reliable, supportive, values harmony
- C (Conscientiousness): Precise, careful, wants details and accuracy
Knowing someone’s DISC style is like having the right map for your meeting. You can adjust how you communicate so everyone feels heard and understood.
Takeaway: If you haven’t already, try taking the DISC assessment yourself and encourage your team to do the same. It’s a great starting point for better conversations.
Tiny DISC Tweaks for Smoother 1:1s
Even small changes in your approach can build trust and help your team open up. Here’s how to tailor your 1:1 meetings using DISC:
- With D-types: Get to the point. Use direct language and focus on results. Skip the small talk and respect their time.
- With I-types: Be upbeat and engage in conversation. Ask about their ideas. Recognize their efforts and encourage creative thinking.
- With S-types: Be patient and show appreciation. Give them time to process changes and talk through their concerns. Consistency is key.
- With C-types: Come prepared with details and data. Be clear about expectations. Give them time to analyze before making decisions.
Try This: Before your next 1:1, jot down your team member’s DISC style and a quick note on how you’ll adjust your approach. Even one small tweak can make your meeting more productive.
Real-World DISC Adjustments for Managers
Here’s how you might use DISC tweaks in action, whether you’re at your favorite coffee spot before heading back to the Baraboo office or making the drive out to a team member in Reedsburg or Sun Prairie:
- Feedback: For a D-type, give feedback tied to goals and performance. For an S-type, focus on encouragement and support.
- Goal Setting: Ask I-types to brainstorm new approaches. For C-types, share detailed plans and let them review information in advance.
- Follow-Up: With S-types, schedule regular check-ins. With D-types, send a summary and next steps right after your meeting.
Tip: Think about how you end each 1:1. A quick “What’s one thing you’d like to tackle before our next meeting?” works well with all styles but can be personalized to fit each person’s DISC profile.
How DISC Makes Your Team Stronger
When you use the DISC model in your 1:1s, you’re not just checking a box. You’re building real relationships. People feel respected, and you’re more likely to spot early signs of burnout, confusion, or even a great new idea.
- Better communication means fewer misunderstandings.
- Personalized meetings boost engagement and loyalty.
- DISC-informed managers see stronger collaboration across different work styles.
Next Step: Choose one team member and try a DISC-based tweak in your next 1:1. See how it changes the conversation and note what works for future meetings.
Where to Start DISC Training
If you’re new to DISC, or you want to build your skills, there are plenty of ways to get started. Many managers from Baraboo and surrounding areas like Portage, Reedsburg, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, and Madison travel to DISC workshops or schedule virtual sessions for their teams. These trainings offer role play, real-life scenarios, and tips tailored for managers.
- Sign up for a DISC workshop to practice new skills.
- Take a DISC assessment to understand your own style.
- Bring DISC training to your next team meeting for hands-on learning.
Actionable Tip: Block 15 minutes this week to learn more about DISC or talk with another manager who’s using it. Every bit of insight helps you make 1:1s that matter.
Make Every 1:1 Count
With just a few mindful changes-using DISC as your guide-you can turn routine check-ins into meaningful conversations. Whether your team is downtown or spread out from Madison to Portage, these small tweaks help you connect, motivate, and lead with confidence. Try one adjustment this week and see the difference in your next 1:1.