Email or Call? How DISC Helps You Decide
If you work in Poway or nearby areas like Ramona, San Diego, Santee, Escondido, or Lakeside, you know how important clear communication is-whether you’re managing a project, leading a team, or collaborating on a tight deadline. Every day, you’re faced with a simple but crucial choice: should you send that message by email, or is it better to pick up the phone? The DISC model takes the guesswork out of this decision, helping you match your approach to the person you’re communicating with.
Understanding DISC and Communication Styles
DISC is a popular personality assessment that breaks communication styles into four main types: D (Dominance), I (Influence), S (Steadiness), and C (Conscientiousness). Each style prefers different ways to connect. If you understand these preferences, it’s easier to get your message across and avoid misunderstandings-whether you’re at your desk in Poway or on the road between meetings in San Diego.
- D (Dominance): Values directness and efficiency. Prefers quick, to-the-point communication.
- I (Influence): Likes lively, personable interaction. Enjoys conversation and connection.
- S (Steadiness): Prefers calm, thoughtful communication. Likes time to reflect.
- C (Conscientiousness): Seeks details and precision. Wants clear, well-organized information.
Tip: Keep these preferences in mind before you hit “send” or dial a number.
When DISC Says Send an Email
Certain situations and styles are a perfect fit for email. Here’s when you should consider typing instead of talking:
- Communicating with C and S types: These folks value written records, time to process, and thoughtful responses.
- Sharing complex details: If your message is heavy on data, instructions, or step-by-step processes, an email lets the reader review at their own pace.
- Following up in writing: After a meeting or call, an email helps everyone stay on the same page with decisions and next steps.
Next step: If your teammate is detail-oriented or needs time to think things over, send an organized email with bullet points and a clear subject line.
When DISC Says Pick Up the Phone
Sometimes, nothing beats a live conversation. Here’s when DISC would nudge you to make a call:
- Working with D or I types: These colleagues often respond better to quick, direct calls or energetic conversations.
- Needing a fast decision: If time is tight, a phone call gets answers now and lets you handle questions on the spot.
- Dealing with sensitive topics: If there’s a chance for confusion or emotion, a real voice can help clarify intent and show empathy.
Try this: If your message is urgent or could be misunderstood in writing, make the call-even if it means dialing while driving through Lakeside or waiting in traffic on the 67.
Mixing It Up: Using Both Email and Phone
Many situations work best with a mix of both. You might call first to discuss, then follow up with an email summary. Or, send an email and offer to talk if questions come up. This approach is especially helpful when you’re coordinating across teams from Poway to Escondido or setting up meetings with colleagues commuting in from Santee or Ramona.
- Start with a call for clarity, then confirm key points in writing.
- Email first for background, then discuss details over the phone.
- Offer choice: Ask your contact their preference-email or call?
Action step: Next time you’re unsure, send a quick note: “Would you prefer to chat about this or get the details by email?” It’s an easy way to show you’re thinking about their needs.
Putting DISC Into Practice
If you want stronger results from every interaction, use the DISC model as your guide. Before reaching out, pause and think about the person’s style. Are they quick to decide, or do they need facts? Do they love to brainstorm, or do they prefer structure? Adjust your method, and you’ll find less confusion, more trust, and smoother teamwork-whether you’re meeting at a Poway coffee spot or traveling to neighboring areas like San Diego, Santee, Ramona, Escondido, or Lakeside.
- Take the DISC assessment to understand your own style.
- Share DISC insights with your team for better collaboration.
- Practice matching your communication to the person, not just the message.
Takeaway: The DISC model isn’t just theory. It’s a practical tool to help you decide-should you send that email, or is it time to pick up the phone? Use it daily for clearer communication and better relationships across every city and team you work with.