How DISC Can Make Your One-on-Ones Work Better
As a manager, you know that a few tweaks in how you talk to your team can make your one-on-ones a lot more productive. If you’ve ever left a meeting in Ithaca or the surrounding areas like Cortland, Auburn, Geneva, Elmira, or Binghamton wishing the conversation had gone smoother, DISC can help. With some practical DISC strategies, you can make small changes that lead to big results. Here’s how you can use DISC in your next one-on-one for better communication, stronger relationships, and fewer misunderstandings-no matter where you’re meeting in Central New York.
DISC Basics for Managers
The DISC model breaks down personality into four main styles: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. In simple terms, DISC helps you notice what makes each person tick-and how you can connect better with each style. When you know which DISC profile your team member leans toward, you can tailor your approach for clearer, more effective conversations.
- D (Dominance): Likes directness, results, and quick decisions.
- I (Influence): Enjoys enthusiasm, collaboration, and recognition.
- S (Steadiness): Prefers patience, stability, and support.
- C (Conscientiousness): Values accuracy, details, and logic.
Takeaway: Knowing these styles helps you adjust your one-on-one meetings for better results.
Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
It’s not about overhauling your entire management style. Instead, make a few targeted adjustments based on DISC insights. Here are some practical tweaks you can use right away:
- Match your pace: For team members who like things fast (D), keep it short and focused. For those who prefer to think things through (S and C), slow down and give them time to process.
- Adjust your tone: Show more enthusiasm with Influencers (I) and keep things calm and steady with Steadiness styles (S).
- Focus your message: Give Dominant styles (D) the bottom line first. With Conscientious types (C), bring facts and details.
- Ask the right questions: Use open-ended questions for Influencers and Steadiness styles to encourage conversation, but get straight to the point with Dominant types.
- Show appreciation how they like it: Some want public recognition (I), others prefer a quiet thank-you (S or C).
Quick tip: Try one tweak at your next one-on-one and see how your team member responds. You’ll notice the difference in engagement and understanding.
DISC in Action: Real World One-on-Ones
When you use DISC in your one-on-ones, you move from theory to practice. Here’s how these small changes play out in real meetings:
- With a Dominant (D): Set a clear agenda, stick to priorities, and don’t sugarcoat feedback. They’ll appreciate your directness and clarity.
- With an Influencer (I): Start with a warm greeting, ask about their latest project, and let the conversation flow. Recognition goes a long way here.
- With a Steadiness (S): Check in on their workload and offer reassurance. Give them time to share their thoughts-they may not jump in right away.
- With a Conscientious (C): Bring the data, offer clear expectations, and avoid putting them on the spot. Give them time to process and follow up in writing if needed.
Takeaway: These tweaks aren’t hard, but they pack a punch when it comes to building trust and getting results.
Why DISC Works for Managers
DISC isn’t just theory-it’s a toolkit for real managers across Ithaca, Cortland, Auburn, Geneva, Elmira, and Binghamton. When you use DISC insights, you:
- Build stronger connections-your team feels seen and understood
- Reduce misunderstandings-everyone’s speaking the same language
- Spot strengths and challenges-so you can support growth
- Handle tough conversations with more confidence
- Create a more positive work environment-less tension, more collaboration
Next step: Start paying attention to how your team members react in your one-on-ones. Jot down which DISC traits you notice and adjust your approach. Even a slight change in your style can create a ripple effect across your whole team.
Ready to Try DISC in Your Next One-on-One?
Whether you’re meeting your team in a downtown Ithaca café or heading out to a site in Auburn, Geneva, Cortland, Elmira, or Binghamton, DISC gives you practical tools you can use on the spot. The key is to keep it simple: notice what works for each person and make small shifts that fit their style. You’ll see better conversations, stronger relationships, and more productive one-on-ones-right here in Central New York.