In the 1920’s, physiological psychologist William Moulton Marston conducted practical explanation in order to help people further understand and manage their experiences and relationships. He theorised that conveying emotions through behaviour could be analysed and sorted into four main fields, depending on the person’s perception of self, according to their environment. Disc Assessment has converted this theory into modern practice with their online software Disc Classic, which enables users to understand themselves and others as well as receiving detailed feedback.

The four main categories that a person’s personality can be separated into are Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Conscientiousness. Each of these ‘types’ has a unique set of characteristics that can represent the qualities and motives of a person. However, each one of us is different and some people have qualities in multiple fields – which can be beneficial in the working environment. The learning and development manager at Warner Bros stated that, “I found DISC UK to be extremely helpful and practical while obtaining my DiSC certification. The session exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend them to other organisations.”

Dominant people are commonly known to be overpowering, forceful, and self-confident and are often ignorant of others. These people strive to succeed and win, and are motivated by success and competition. Due to their fast-paced nature, they need people who can slow down and calculate the risks, weigh pros and cons, deliberate and recognise the needs of others.

You can often recognise those under ‘Influence’ as they are very social centred people. Group activities and relationships give them strength and they prioritise collaboration, enthusiasm and action, people recognising them as magnetic, enthusiastic, warm and trusting. Their impulsiveness and lack of organisation can often leave them without a follow-through, therefore they are most likely suited to those who can concentrate, provide systematic approaches and seek facts.

The steady type of person also supports co-operation, however they are more subdued and present a calm, patient and stable demeanour. Consistent and secure, this type of person values loyalty and helping others, however their indecisive nature and fear of change means they need someone who can react to unexpected change and work in an unpredictable environment comfortably. Be personal with this person as well as amiable and polite. Take time to provide clarification and avoid confrontation.

Gaining knowledge and providing quality work usually shows the conscientious type. Accuracy, stability and quality define this person and they are known to be cautious, diplomatic and tactful. They can however sometimes be overly critical, analysing and are prone to isolating themselves. Because of this, they need someone who can compromise with the opposition, state unpopular opinions, delegate important tasks and initiate/facilitate discussions.