When Styles Collide: Turning Workplace Conflict Into Collaboration

The DISCy Chicks kick off season 8 with a session on dealing with conflict. Hey, conflict is a normal in the workplace, so we thought we'd address it head on!

Cindy and Martha started with a quick review of what DISC is for those listeners new to our favorite assessment.  We dive into styles that are basically opposite of one another, like a high Dominant and a high Steady. First of all pace is very different for that high dominant (fast paced) and the high Steady (slower paced). A high steady can feel very overwhelmed by how aggressive a Dominant can show up! The truth be known, a dominant typically does not adapt their style do the employees that are different from their own way of showing up! The high steady is very relationship oriented, while the dominant is not so much. 

We then go to the high Influencer and the high Compliant, again two opposites styles. The high influencer is trying to get an employee to their point of view, talking and persuading. The high Compliant is looking for details, which is not a strong suit for an influencer. So basically they are not giving each other what they are wanting and needing. This definitely can become contentious! 

Next, we discuss a high Influencer  and a high Steady. The good news is the are both relationship oriented; however their approaches are quite different. As you listen to our discussion,you will understand that the high Influencer energy can be too much for the high Steady pace and energy, resulting in conflict, which the Steady is not comfortable with.

Next up is about how a high Dominant and a high Influencer communicate. The high Dominant is all about the results, and sees people as a means to an end for those results. The Influencer is more sensitive and wants to make sure the people are on board and have what they need to accomplish those results. These two styles have very different approaches to how they lead their team. 

Lastly, we address the High Steady and the High Compliant. Their pace is very similar, and their approach to communication is different. The Compliant is looking for accuracy and perfection, and typically may not communicate their needs to others, as the tend to be more self-reliant. The high Steady is gentle and can be as though row as the high Compliant, and the differentiator is they really care about their employees. 

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