How to Use DISC to Improve Your Everyday Messages
You know those work emails or team chats that always seem to get misunderstood? Or maybe you’ve noticed someone on your team tunes out during meetings. That’s where DISC can help. DISC isn’t just a one-time personality test-it’s a practical tool you can use every day to make your messages clearer, your conversations smoother, and your team stronger. Here’s how you can put DISC into action with real messages you’re already sending.
What Is DISC and Why Use It for Communication?
DISC is a simple model that helps you understand behavior styles-yours and others’. The four styles are:
- D (Dominance): Direct, results-focused
- I (Influence): Social, enthusiastic
- S (Steadiness): Supportive, calm
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-oriented, precise
When you know your DISC style-and the styles of the folks you work with-you can tailor your messages so they actually land. That means fewer back-and-forths, more productive meetings, and better teamwork.
Takeaway: Start noticing which DISC style shows up in your everyday conversations. This awareness is your first step to better communication.
Try DISC on Your Actual Messages
You don’t have to wait for a formal workshop or big project kickoff. You can start practicing DISC with the next message you write-whether it’s an email to your boss or a quick note to your team.
- D-Style: Get to the point, focus on results or decisions.
- I-Style: Use positive language, acknowledge people’s contributions.
- S-Style: Provide reassurance, explain changes, show support.
- C-Style: Offer details, use clear logic, avoid vague instructions.
Think about who you’re writing to. Adjust your tone and structure to match their style. If you’re not sure, try blending a couple of these approaches. You’ll notice people respond faster and with fewer questions.
Next step: Before you hit send on your next message, pause and ask yourself: “Which DISC style fits this person best?” Adjust your message accordingly.
Live Coaching: Get Feedback Right Away
One of the best ways to get comfortable with DISC is to practice with real messages and get live coaching. Imagine getting instant feedback on that tricky email you’re about to send or that important announcement to your team. This hands-on approach helps you see what works and what could be clearer, right in the moment.
- Bring a real message-email, chat, or even a meeting agenda
- Share your draft with a coach or trusted peer trained in DISC
- Get specific tips: “Add more details for a C-style reader” or “Make this more direct for a D-style colleague”
Tip: Start a weekly routine where you review your messages with a DISC lens. Over time, you’ll find it easier to flex your style and connect with different people.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Even minor tweaks in how you communicate can make a real difference. For example, you might:
- Use bullet points for detail-oriented C-styles
- Kick off a meeting with a quick story for I-styles
- Give S-styles a heads-up before making decisions
- Send a D-style colleague a clear action step
These small shifts show respect for others’ preferences and help you get your message across the first time. Over time, this builds trust and keeps projects moving forward.
Takeaway: Try one small DISC-based adjustment today-see how your colleagues react and build from there.
Connecting Across the Area
If you’re working in Dunwoody or traveling around nearby spots like Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Chamblee, Norcross, or Atlanta, you know every team and workplace has its own local flavor. Whether you’re chatting with someone over coffee in Brookhaven or leading a team meeting in Sandy Springs, using DISC gives you a practical way to connect with all kinds of personalities.
- Brookhaven: Maybe you’re working with a fast-paced, results-driven group-flex your D-style skills.
- Sandy Springs: Teams here often value harmony-bring your S-style communication forward.
- Chamblee and Norcross: Diverse workplaces can benefit from the clarity and empathy DISC brings.
- Atlanta: With big projects and busy teams, using DISC keeps everyone on the same page.
Wherever you’re headed around the area, you can count on DISC to help you build better relationships and get more done-whether you’re in a boardroom or a local café.
Suggested next step: Try using DISC with your next message-then ask for feedback from someone you trust. How did it land? What could you tweak next time?