Small Changes in DISC That Make Better 1:1 Meetings
If you lead a team, you know how important one-on-one meetings are. But maybe you’ve noticed those sessions sometimes feel tense, unproductive, or just sort of flat. The DISC model gives you a simple way to make small tweaks to your approach, so your meetings feel more natural and actually get results. Whether you’re working in Mount Vernon, traveling from Yonkers or New Rochelle, or connecting with colleagues from White Plains, Scarsdale, or the Bronx, these tips will help you build real connections-without a ton of effort.
Why DISC Makes 1:1s Smoother
DISC is a personality assessment tool that helps you understand how people communicate and what they need in a conversation. You get insight into four main styles:
- D (Dominance): Direct, decisive, and results-oriented
- I (Influence): Social, talkative, and enthusiastic
- S (Steadiness): Patient, calm, and supportive
- C (Conscientiousness): Detail-focused, analytical, and precise
If you know your own style and your team member’s style, you can shape your 1:1 meetings to fit what works best for both of you. The result? Less misunderstanding, more progress, and a lot less tension.
Takeaway: Small DISC-based changes can turn routine meetings into real conversations that move your team forward.
Quick Tweaks for Each DISC Style in 1:1s
You don’t need to overhaul your whole approach. Try these simple adjustments based on each DISC style:
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With D-types:
- Start with the main point right away
- Be concise-keep it moving
- Ask for their input on action items
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With I-types:
- Warm up with some casual conversation
- Recognize their efforts out loud
- Let them brainstorm and talk things through
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With S-types:
- Give them time to respond-don’t rush
- Reassure them about changes or new tasks
- Show you value their consistency
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With C-types:
- Come prepared with details and info
- Be ready to answer questions
- Let them process before expecting a decision
Try this: Before your next meeting, think about the other person’s DISC style and pick one tweak to try.
DISC in Action: Real-Life Meeting Adjustments
Let’s say you’ve got a Monday meeting with an I-type employee. You might spend the first few minutes chatting about the Yankees or what’s happening on Main Street. If you’re meeting with a D-type, you’ll want to skip the small talk and jump right into what’s needed this week. These tweaks might sound small, but they go a long way toward making your team members feel heard-and that’s what keeps people engaged.
Maybe you’re driving in from White Plains or making the commute from Scarsdale. Use that time to think about which DISC style you’ll be sitting down with next. Even if you’re meeting virtually with someone in the Bronx or New Rochelle, a quick review of their DISC profile can help you steer the conversation in a way that feels right for them.
- Connect with D-types by being direct and results-focused
- Connect with I-types by being friendly and enthusiastic
- Connect with S-types by being patient and supportive
- Connect with C-types by being thorough and well-prepared
Next step: Use your commute or a few quiet minutes before your 1:1 to remind yourself of your colleague’s DISC style and plan your approach.
What You’ll Notice Right Away
When you start using DISC tweaks in your 1:1s, you’ll see changes fast:
- People open up more
- Meetings move faster and feel more productive
- You’ll have fewer miscommunications
- Your team will start looking forward to check-ins
These small changes can help you become the kind of manager people want to work with-whether they’re based in Mount Vernon or commuting from Yonkers, White Plains, New Rochelle, Scarsdale, or the Bronx.
Tip: Keep track of what works and make small adjustments each week. The more you practice, the easier it gets.
Getting Started with DISC Training
If you’re new to DISC, consider starting with a basic DISC assessment for yourself and your team. That gives you a clear sense of everyone’s styles and what tweaks will have the biggest impact. DISC training for managers is available in formats that work for busy schedules-whether you’re working in town or splitting your time across the city and suburbs.
- Get your own DISC profile to see your style
- Talk with your team about their results
- Practice one tweak at a time in your 1:1s
Suggested next step: Schedule a DISC assessment this week, and pick one meeting to try your first tweak. You’ll be surprised at how quickly things start to feel more natural and productive.