I remember when I first came to Asia, how do I deal with a Boss from a culture different to mine. I struggled for a while until i first came into contact with DISC. I quickly saw it was a way to cut through my cultural bias and enable me to understand the behaviours of both my new colleagues and bosses.
In the third of four articles, I’ll help by enabling you to tell the archetype styles, and give you an idea of how you are able to deal with them, by understanding their behaviour preferences. Part two- dealing with, communicating with, working with a steady Boss, as they are methodical, thorough, relational and expect others to follow through.
High S’s are Identified by These Easy to Read Traits
Communication Slow and deliberate
Motivated by Safety and security
Orientation People oriented
Main Priority Pleasing others
Wants Others to be sincere
Basic Weakness Lack of assertiveness
Key Strength Patient and helpful
Turn Off Others pushing too hard
Work Pace Steady
Emotion non-emotional on the outside
Wants others To be sincere
When confronted Will give in
When communicating with STEADINESS style:
- Take time to break the ice.
- Ask lots of questions to get them involved in the conversation.
- Be non‑aggressive and non‑threatening.
Factors that tend to create tension or dissatisfaction:
- Push them for a quick decision.
- Being non‑cooperative.
- Not taking time to build a personal relationship with them.
How “S” Boss Gives Assignments:
- Sets appointment ahead of time
- Includes background information
- Step by step lists
- Well organized and in writing
- Provides timelines
EXAMPLE:
“Hello Jan. I’m asking you to help with an assignment because I think you have the best understanding of Richland Development. I’m concerned about this client, because the sales performance for the last three quarters went from an average of 240 to 160. The assignment is to assess how we can increase our effectiveness for Richland Development for the next quarter. Are you available tomorrow @ 3pm or 4pm?”
How to Respond to Assignments from “S” Boss:
- Listen and then ask questions
- Reiterate key objectives
- Ask how frequently they want progress updates
- Commit to a timeline
EXAMPLE:
“Thank you for thinking of me for this assignment. I’m happy to do anything I can to help as I know how important the account is to all of us. I can meet tomorrow @ 3pm. I will bring my prior Richland Development reports with me.”
Extra Tips…
Your Boss is an “S” and You Are a “D” Don’t control or dominate. Slow down and listen. Remember…they are the Boss!
Your Boss is an “S” and You Are an “I” Let them talk as you take notes and ask practical questions. Pace yourself.
Your Boss is an “S” and You Are an “S” Ask your Boss when a draft of your plan for accomplishing the assignment is due.
Your Boss is an “S” and You Are a “C” Inquire the level of detail the assignment necessitates. Verify/commit to the deadline.