This week we continue with the second component of the Wow Factor: Competence, being good at what we do.
We are in the middle of our study on understanding human behavior and personalities, a competency that will benefit everyone looking to deliver the Wow Factor. We are using the DISC model as a simple and effective method of learning. You’ll want to read this post for a short introduction to DISC if you haven’t already.
Last week we looked a little closer at the I, or Inspiring personality.
This week we’re taking a closer look at the S, or Steady personality style. Looking at the graphs below, the S type is found in the lower-right quadrant based on their answers to our two questions–they are reserved and people-oriented.
Common traits of an S-type
The S-type is the most common of the four, at an estimated 30-35% of the population. They are sweet and steady. They value peace and harmony above all else.
The S-type is often soft-spoken and agreeable. They use lower speaking volume and are less animated than the D or S types. The S doesn’t want the spotlight and are usually hesitant to give their opinion.
S-types are naturally good listeners. They often intuitively sense the mood in social settings that others may miss. They like structure and a clearly defined task and may resist change or the unknown.
If you are not a S-type
If your primary personality type is any of the other three types, here are some helpful things to keep in mind when dealing with someone who is an S-type:
- soften your approach and your tone
- slow down when speaking
- give them time to adjust to change, don’t spring things on them
- Always start with S language–warm and friendly
The last point is so important it’s worth stressing again: When in doubt, always start with the warm and friendly language of an S type. The largest percentage of the population is S, and most people will appreciate it even if they are not an S!
If your primary personality type is S, here are some helpful things to keep in mind when dealing with people who are not:
- change can be good and can provide an opportunity
- be confident in your communication, don’t be afraid to speak up
- it is ok to say “no”
- being servant minded does not mean you have to be a sucker
This post is just skimming the surface of this personality type and the practical takeaways of understanding the S-type whether it is yourself, your spouse, a boss, coworkers, friends or clients.
I teach full-day Wow Factor workshops for organizations from coast-to-coast where we dive into this content much more thoroughly. If you would like to find out how I can come alongside your team and help them understand each other and communicate on a higher level, please reach out to me, either at alan@alanbracken.com or call me directly at 423-863-6257.
You can also click the discovery report link in the sidebar to the right to get your own DISC discovery report. Understanding yourself better than ever before is a great place to start developing your competence in the critical subject of understanding human behavior!
Next week we will learn more about the C: Cautious personality type!