How to Make DISC Training Stick in Your Daily Routine
After you’ve completed a DISC workshop, it’s tempting to slip back into old habits, especially with the fast pace of work in the Bay Area. Whether you’re leading a team or working with colleagues, it’s easy for new skills to fade if you don’t put them into practice. But keeping DISC principles alive doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, consistent actions can help you and your team keep those communication improvements strong-long after the training is over.
Turn DISC Principles Into Daily Habits
Staying on top of your DISC skills works best when you weave them into your daily routine. Here’s how you can keep those insights from the workshop fresh and useful:
- Start meetings with a DISC check-in: Take a minute to notice everyone’s style. If you know someone prefers direct questions, get right to the point. For others who like more discussion, give them space to share.
- Use DISC language in conversations: When giving feedback or coaching, try referencing communication styles. For example, “I know you like details, so I’ve included a summary at the end of this report.”
- Keep your DISC profile nearby: Pin your top takeaways somewhere visible-on your desk or desktop background. A quick glance can remind you to flex your style as needed.
- Practice active listening: Pay attention to not just what is said, but how it’s said. This helps you spot the DISC style in action and respond more effectively.
- End the week with a reflection: Ask yourself, “Did I adapt my style this week? What worked well?” Jot down a note or two so you keep improving.
Tip: Pick one habit to try today. The simpler, the better-consistency matters more than complexity.
Keep DISC Alive Through Team Activities
Reinforcement works best when everyone participates. Here are ways your team can keep DISC top-of-mind together:
- Monthly check-ins: Dedicate a few minutes during a regular meeting to discuss how the team is using DISC. Share wins or challenges.
- Role-play real scenarios: Bring up a tough conversation or recent misunderstanding. Have team members act it out using what they learned about different DISC styles.
- Celebrate style diversity: Call out examples where someone’s unique approach helped the team. This builds respect for different ways of working.
- Create a DISC “cheat sheet”: List team members’ preferred communication tips and post it somewhere everyone can see-like the break room or a shared drive.
Next step: Suggest adding a five-minute DISC moment to your next meeting’s agenda. Encourage everyone to bring one example of using DISC.
Personalize Your Communication Using DISC Insights
The true value of DISC assessment comes when you use it to tailor your approach. Here’s how to make that second nature:
- Think before you speak: Pause and consider the other person’s DISC style before you send an email or make a request. Are they direct, analytical, people-oriented, or steady?
- Adjust your emails: Some prefer bullet points and brevity, others want background and details. Match your style to theirs.
- Use empathy in conflict: When disagreements come up, revisit what motivates each style. Are they seeking results, harmony, accuracy, or support?
Takeaway: Challenge yourself to flex your style in one conversation each day. Notice the results and keep building from there.
Stay Connected with DISC Resources
Growth doesn’t stop after the workshop. Keep learning and sharing with your team:
- Share articles or quick tips: Set up a group chat or Slack channel for DISC-related insights. Rotate responsibility for posting.
- Schedule refreshers: Every few months, set aside time for a brief DISC refresher-either as a self-guided review or a quick team huddle.
- Ask for feedback: Invite your team to let you know if you’re slipping into old habits. Accountability helps everyone stay sharp.
Tip: Bookmark one new DISC resource or print out a favorite guide for easy reference at your desk.
Keep DISC Skills Fresh On the Go
With East Palo Alto’s easy access to nearby hubs like Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Redwood City, Mountain View, and Stanford, many professionals find themselves hopping between offices or coffee shops. Whether you’re meeting a client on University Avenue or working from a co-working space, DISC habits can travel with you.
- Before a meeting: Quickly review the DISC style of the person you’re meeting as you ride Caltrain or sit in traffic on the 101.
- For remote teams: Use video calls to spot communication preferences. Adjust your approach, even if you’re dialing in from a café in Mountain View or a shared workspace in Menlo Park.
- Networking events: When connecting with new contacts from places like Redwood City or Stanford, ask questions that reveal their style and adapt your pitch accordingly.
Next step: On your next commute or workday in a new location, practice recognizing and flexing to a different DISC style. Notice how the conversation flows.
Start Small, Stick With It
DISC training works best when you make it a natural part of your day. Small, steady habits will help you and your team keep improving communication, teamwork, and leadership-no matter where your work takes you in the Bay Area. Try one idea from above this week, and see how quickly your DISC skills become second nature.