D-type personalities
The D in the Everything DiSC® model stands for dominance. D types are direct, firm, and results-oriented.
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.)
The D styles: D, DC, Di
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.
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
You might notice your D style colleague trying to work harder or put in more hours to try and prove themselves. Or they might be focusing on all those areas where they don’t have control and freaking out a bit. Their mental strain might be showing itself through impatience and insensitivity.
The “Get it done” group. What does it mean to be part of a D-focused culture?
No one DiSC style makes for a better leader. Each style has strengths we can all learn from.