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A D-style word cloud in a silhouette of a person’s head

D-type personalities

The D in the Everything DiSC® model stands for dominance. D types are direct, firm, and results-oriented.

DiSC map image showing D, i, S, and C quadrants of a circle

What is the D in DiSC®?

In the Everything DiSC model, D stands for dominance. People with D styles are usually direct, firm, and results-oriented. They may be described as driven, strong-willed, and competitive. They are more likely than others to display aggressive behavior and push vigorously for their opinions and goals.

How do you get typed as a D?

At its core, the DISC model is two-dimensional, measuring pace from fast to moderate and agreeableness from accepting to skeptical. The D styles are those personalities that are both fast-paced and outspoken, and also questioning and skeptical.

What do the DiSC D scales measure?

While the DISC model is two-dimensional, the Everything DiSC assessment measures eight scales. These are the D scales.

DiSC scale Description
D The D scale measures a direct, forceful disposition using items such as “I can be blunt” and “I am dominant.”
Di/iD The Di/iD scale measures a bold, active disposition using items such as, “I tend to be the first one to try new things” and “I am dynamic.”
DC/CD The DC/CD scale measures a skeptical, impatient disposition using items such as, “Being skeptical is one of my strengths” and “I get impatient with incompetent people.”

Dot placement

Where you fall on the D scale will be shown by the dot placement on your own Everything DiSC profile. You might be strongly inclined to the DC style with your dot appearing on the far edge and between the D and C lines. Or you might be slightly inclined toward the D style with your dot appearing closer to the middle and centered in the D quadrant. (Learn more at DiSC® dot and priorities explained.)

DiSC map showing a dot in the D quadrant

The D styles: D, DC, Di

D style graphic showing these priorities: results, action, challenge

The solid D or high D style

D types in the DiSC model are direct, firm, and results-oriented. They are typically described as driven, strong-willed, and competitive.

Learn about the D style
DC style graphic showing these priorities: challenge, results, accuracy

The DC style

DC types are even more strongly focused on the challenges. They love to explore options and give them all a good evaluation. This style can drive you crazy with questions. In fact, like strong Cs, they can be overly blunt or sarcastic. DC styles tend to be diligent, tough-minded, and creative.

Learn about the DC style
Di style graphic showing these priorities: action, results, enthusiasm

The Di style

The Di personality is the most fast-paced. They are quick to act—perhaps too quick. They are often the most charming of Ds, probably because it’s easier for them to display more enthusiasm. They tend to be results-oriented, vocal, and enthusiastic.

Learn about the Di style

Working with D-style people

Communicating with D styles

  • Give them the bottom line.
  • Be brief and speak up.
  • Focus your discussion narrowly.
  • Avoid generalizations.
  • Refrain from repeating yourself.
  • Focus on solutions rather than problems.

D-style sayings

  • Fortune favors the bold.
  • You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs.
  • When the going gets tough, the tough get going.
  • The end justifies the means.
  • Actions speak louder than words.
  • Never say never.

Problem-solving with D styles

  • Be aware that they respond well to bold or daring ideas.
  • Avoid suggesting unrealistically positive scenarios.
  • Focus on the big picture and avoid overanalysis.

D styles in meetings

  • They prefer minimal small talk and side chatter.
  • They appreciate an agenda that everyone sticks to.

Motivations in the workplace

  • Having authority
  • Overcoming obstacles

Stressors in the workplace

  • Following strict rules or protocols
  • Lacking control over situations

Other DiSC styles

fast-paced & outgoing, accepting & warm

Learn about i styles

cautious & reflective, accepting & warm

Learn about S styles

cautious & reflective, questioning & skeptical

Learn about C styles

Dig deeper into D styles

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