Meeting Energy with Energy: The Hidden Power of DISC

Traditional communication advice has led us astray. We're often told to balance out strong personalities—to be the calm in someone else's storm or to bring energy to someone's reserve. But what if the key to effective communication isn’t about balancing opposites but about meeting people where they are?

Understanding the D: The Drive for Results

The Dominant (D) personality thrives on challenge and action. These are the individuals who cut straight to the chase, prioritize results over relationships, and make decisions swiftly. They speak directly, move quickly, and value efficiency above all else. What many don’t realize is that D types are energized by opposition—they respect those who can match their directness and stand their ground.

Example: Imagine you're in a meeting with a high-powered executive (a strong D personality) who asks, "What’s the bottom line?" If you start explaining all the background details before getting to the main point, you’ll lose their attention. Instead, say something like, “We have two options. Option A increases revenue by 10%, but takes longer. Option B is faster but more costly. I recommend Option A because of its long-term benefits.” This direct and decisive response keeps them engaged and earns their respect.

The I Personality: Where Enthusiasm Meets Connection

The Influential (I) personality lights up a room with their energy and optimism. They thrive on social interaction, tell stories to make their points, and value emotional connection in communication. These are the people who remember personal details, share experiences freely, and believe in the power of positive energy.

Example: You’re working on a project with a high-energy colleague who loves brainstorming and bouncing ideas around. Instead of shutting them down with a dry "Let’s stay focused," try leaning into their enthusiasm: “I love that idea! Let’s jot down a few possibilities and see how we can make it work.” By matching their social energy, you keep them engaged while still moving the project forward.

The Steady S: Building Trust Through Consistency

The Steady (S) personality creates harmony through patience and reliability. These individuals value stability, prefer methodical approaches, and build deep, lasting relationships. They’re the ones who remember team members’ preferences, maintain consistent performance, and ensure everyone feels heard.

Example: Suppose you have an S-type coworker who is hesitant about a sudden shift in company policy. If you rush them to adapt, you’ll only increase their resistance. Instead, approach them with reassurance: “I know this change is a big shift, but we’ll take it one step at a time. Let’s go over the details together so we can make sure everything is clear.” By matching their need for stability, you build trust and help them transition smoothly.

The Conscientious C: Precision and Accuracy

The Conscientious (C) personality seeks perfection through analysis and careful consideration. These are the detail-oriented individuals who verify every fact, consider all angles, and ensure quality in everything they do. They approach problems systematically and value expertise.

Example: You’re presenting a proposal to a C-type manager. If you make bold claims without supporting data, they’ll immediately lose confidence in your recommendation. Instead, match their need for precision: “Based on the last three years of data, our analysis shows a 15% increase in efficiency if we implement this system. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers.” This shows them you respect their analytical mindset and builds credibility.

The Power of Energy Matching

When we match someone’s communication energy, we send a powerful message: "I see you, I understand you, and I respect your way of operating." This doesn’t mean changing who we are—it means showing we can meet them where they are.

Think of it like speaking someone’s language.
✅ When a D meets another D’s directness, they don’t see aggression—they see strength.
✅ When an I meets another I’s enthusiasm, they don’t see excess—they see connection.
✅ When an S meets another S’s patience, they don’t see hesitation—they see wisdom.
✅ When a C meets another C’s thoroughness, they don’t see obsession—they see quality.

The Path Forward

Understanding DISC isn’t about putting people in boxes or changing our fundamental nature. It’s about recognizing that different people are energized by different approaches, and that meeting them at their energy level creates more effective communication.

Try this: The next time you’re in a challenging interaction, instead of trying to balance or moderate the other person’s style, try matching it. Watch what happens when you meet directness with directness, enthusiasm with enthusiasm, patience with patience, or thoroughness with thoroughness.

The results might surprise you—and they’ll definitely change how you think about communication.