Dominance is the D in DISC.
Persons having a High Dominance Factor (50% or greater) are competitive and assertive. They tend to be self-centred or selfish. This can however have a positive aspect in that it instils a sense of individual responsibility and drive towards achieving success.
Dominant individuals are best suited to positions of Power and Control. They tell rather than ask. They judge on results not words. Under pressure situations they will tend to direct or dictate solutions forcefully. They usually have a high stress threshold.
They are motivated by power, success and control. Their prime fear is personal failure.
Persons having a Low Dominance Factor (less than 50%) are generally not competitive and not assertive. They tend to be mild, hesitant people who put the needs of others before their own. They avoid responsibility, preferring to refer or put off decisions.
Low Dominance individuals are best suited to technical, administrative or supportive roles. They are not generally suited to managerial or supervisory roles. They tend to have a low pressure and stress threshold.
Influence is the I in DISC.
Persons having a High Influence factor (50% or greater) are generally outgoing and talkative. They often appear to be egotistical and self-centred. They are actually extremely concerned by what others think of them and try often desperately to attract attention and appreciation from others, usually by behaving in an overly sociable manner.
They are emotional people: their judgements are rarely based upon logic and their feelings are easily hurt. They are usually unable to handle pressure situations without recourse to verbal attacks as a means of expressing anger or self-defence.
They are motivated by praise and public recognition. Their prime fear is that of personal or public rejection.
Persons having a Low Influence Factor (less than 50%) are generally reserved, reflective, suspicious and self-conscious. They would rather withdraw and watch the world go by, passing judgement as they do so.
Low Influence individuals often have a tendency to be autocratic, particularly if linked to High Dominance. They are serious-minded and often prefer to work alone.
Steadiness is the S in DISC.
Persons having a High Steadiness factor (50% or greater) are usually patient, amiable people who enjoy the company of others and place value on 'sincere' appreciation of themselves. Although they enjoy the company of others, they are not naturally outgoing and usually have few really close friends; seldom will they take the initiative in a social situation.
These personality types are thorough and persistent in finishing whatever they start. They do not handle stress or pressure situations well and need to be in a comfortable, friendly environment to work at their best. Naturally indecisive, they will need time to consider the implications; they will avoid risks; and they dislike sudden or unplanned change. They will resist anything that threatens the stability of their environment.
They are motivated by sincere appreciation. Their prime fear is that of personal insecurity.
Persons having a Low Steadiness factor (less than 50%) are usually restless, demonstrative, impatient individuals anxious to achieve results, particularly if linked to High Dominance. Always on the go, they tend to be extremely active and find it difficult to relax. There is a tendency to have lots of projects on the go at once as they have a low boredom threshold, preferring the excitement and interest of starting a project rather than the mundane slog often required to finish, particularly if linked to High Influence.
Compliance is the C in DISC.
Persons having High Compliance (50% or greater) have a deep-seated need to be 'correct'. They find it difficult to work in unstructured environments. They will avoid conflict. They do not manage stress or pressure situations well.
They can be seen by others as cold, logical and informal. They are adept at finding diplomatic solutions to interpersonal problems. They are private individuals who prefer to distance themselves from others, viewing the world with scepticism or cynicism from a distance.
They are motivated by 'standard operating procedures' (rules) in a structured environment. Their prime fear is that of 'face to face' personal conflict.
Persons having Low Compliance (less than 50%) have a deep-seated need to be independent'. They find it uncomfortable working in overly-structured environments, preferring to 'do their own thing'. Firm and strong-willed, they will often precipitate a confrontation to achieve a result. They are prepared to take risks.
They can be careless, not being overly concerned about detail. Stubborn and with little regard for authority, they are often seen as rebellious and defiant. If fighting for something that they care about, they will often 'dig their heels in' and become obstinate, particularly if linked to High Steadiness.