DISC and Choosing Between Email or Phone Calls
Every day, you have to decide: Should you send an email, or is it better to pick up the phone? If you’re working in a place like Chaparral-or traveling to nearby spots like Las Cruces, Sunland Park, Deming, Alamogordo, or Carlsbad-you know that clear, effective communication makes a difference. The DISC model can help you figure out the best way to connect, depending on your own style and the people you work with.
How DISC Helps You Decide
The DISC model breaks down communication into four main styles. Each style has its own preferences when it comes to email or phone calls. Understanding these can help you avoid misunderstandings and work better with your team or clients.
- D (Dominance): Direct, results-oriented, likes quick answers.
- I (Influence): People-focused, enthusiastic, enjoys conversation.
- S (Steadiness): Patient, dependable, prefers a personal touch.
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-oriented, values accuracy, likes written records.
Takeaway: Knowing your DISC style-and the styles of those around you-makes it easier to choose the right way to communicate.
When Email Works Best
Email is fast, trackable, and lets people respond on their own time. Here’s when it’s a smart choice, especially if you have a lot going on between Chaparral and Las Cruces or you’re catching up after a road trip to Deming:
- Sharing detailed information that someone might want to refer back to
- Communicating with C and D styles who like clear, to-the-point messages
- Sending updates or reminders that don’t require immediate feedback
- Keeping a record of agreements or next steps
Tip: If you know someone prefers email-especially those who are detail-focused or need written documentation-stick to clear, concise messages. Bullet points help!
When a Phone Call Is Better
Sometimes, nothing beats the sound of a real voice-especially if you’re working with folks who value relationships, like those with S or I styles. If you’re driving up to Alamogordo or Carlsbad for a meeting, or just need to sort out a misunderstanding, a call can make all the difference.
- Discussing sensitive topics or giving feedback
- Building relationships and trust
- Handling urgent issues or decisions
- Clarifying confusion that can’t be solved with a quick message
Try this: When you sense tension or just want to connect more personally, dial the number. Even a quick call can clear things up faster than a whole string of emails.
Reading the Room-DISC in Action
It’s not just about your own style. Think about who you’re contacting. If you’re collaborating with someone from Sunland Park who’s always upbeat and chatty, they might appreciate a call-even for simple updates. If your teammate in Las Cruces prefers to double-check every detail, an email might be the way to go.
| DISC Style | Best Communication Method | Why |
|---|---|---|
| D | Email or short phone call | Prefers efficiency and clear direction |
| I | Phone call or face-to-face | Values energy and personal connection |
| S | Phone call or in-person | Appreciates a supportive, caring approach |
| C | Needs detail and a written record |
Next step: Pay attention to how people respond. If you get one-word emails from someone who loves to talk in person, switch it up and give them a call next time.
Make DISC Part of Your Routine
Whether you’re in the office, meeting clients in Deming, or heading out to Alamogordo or Carlsbad, using DISC can help you communicate in a way that feels natural for everyone involved. Start by noticing your own preferences. Then, try to match your approach to the person you’re talking with.
- Ask coworkers how they like to communicate
- Use DISC language in team meetings to set expectations
- Pick one conversation this week to tailor your style-email or phone-using what you know about DISC
Tip: The more you use DISC, the easier it gets. Pretty soon, you’ll know when to hit send-and when to pick up the phone-without even thinking about it.