How to Customise Your Communication Style as a Creative Leader for the Different Members of My Team?

As creative leaders, one of our most important tasks is ensuring that our message resonates with every member of your team. This becomes especially challenging when our team is made up of diverse personalities, each with their unique communication preferences. A one-size-fits-all approach to communication often leads to misunderstandings, missed opportunities, and disengagement.

To navigate this, the DiSC model offers a powerful framework for customising our communication style to meet the needs of different individuals.

Understanding the DiSC Model
The DiSC model is a popular behavioural assessment tool that categorises individuals into four primary behavioural styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). Each of these styles has distinct preferences and tendencies when it comes to communication, which can be summarised as follows:

1. Dominance (D): Individuals with a Dominance style are results-oriented, assertive, and prefer direct communication. They value efficiency and are motivated by challenges and competition.
2. Influence (I): Those with an Influence style are outgoing, enthusiastic, and sociable. They thrive on positive reinforcement, enjoy collaborative environments, and are motivated by social recognition and relationships.
3. Steadiness (S): Individuals with a Steadiness style are supportive, dependable, and prefer stability. They value cooperation, consistency, and are motivated by appreciation and security.
4. Conscientiousness (C): Those with a Conscientiousness style are analytical, detail-oriented, and value accuracy. They prefer structured, clear communication and are motivated by quality and correctness.

Customising Your Communication Style
Now that we have a basic understanding of the DiSC model, let’s explore how we can customise our communication style to effectively engage with each type within our teams.

1. Communicating with Dominance (D) Style:
When communicating with Dominance styles, be direct and to the point. Focus on results, outcomes, and how the task or project aligns with the broader goals. Avoid small talk and get straight to the matter at hand. Be confident in your approach, and be prepared to answer questions related to the "what" and "when" of the task. For example, when delegating a task, emphasise the impact of their contribution on the overall success of the project.

Example: "We need this project completed by Friday to meet our client’s deadline. Your quick decision-making will ensure we deliver on time."

2. Communicating with Influence (I) Style:
When interacting with Influence styles, keep the communication upbeat and engaging. They appreciate a conversational approach that includes social interaction and positive reinforcement. Highlight the collaborative aspects of the project and recognize their contributions publicly whenever possible. They respond well to enthusiasm and motivational language.

Example: "Your creativity will be key to making this campaign a success. I’m excited to see what ideas you’ll bring to the table!"

3. Communicating with Steadiness (S) Style:
Steadiness styles value a calm and supportive communication style. They prefer to work in a harmonious environment and appreciate a more personal approach. Take the time to ask about their well-being and provide reassurance that their contributions are valued. When discussing tasks, be patient and provide clear, step-by-step instructions.

Example: "I know this project will require some steady focus, but your attention to detail, consistent effort and support are exactly what we need to make it a success."

4. Communicating with Conscientiousness (C) Style:
When dealing with Conscientiousness style, ensure your communication is precise and well-organised. They appreciate detailed explanations and expect clear expectations and standards. Avoid rushing them, as they prefer to take the time to analyse information thoroughly. Provide them with data and evidence to support your requests and be open to answering their in-depth questions.

Example: "I’ve outlined the key metrics we need to hit and attached the relevant data. Let me know if you need any additional information to ensure accuracy."

Conclusion.
As a creative leader, our ability to customise our communication style using the DiSC model can significantly enhance our team’s performance and morale. By understanding and adapting to the different communication preferences of Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness styles, we create an environment where every team member feels understood and valued. This is the very essence of creative leadership.  This customised approach not only strengthens relationships but also drives creativity and collaboration within your team, ultimately leading to better results and a more cohesive work environment.

By leveraging the DiSC model, we’re not just communicating—we’re connecting with our team in a way that inspires them to achieve their best.

Stay Safe, Stay Positive, Stay Creative.

Towards your continued success,

Hazriq Idrus | Creative Leadership & Public Speaking Strategist | Author of “Creative Leadership” & "The Stage Fright Antidote"

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Hazriq Idrus is a stage actor turned professional speaker who is passionate on the topics of Creativity, Leadership and Communications, and how these three synergise.  He founded The Speaking Factory Pte Ltd with a mission to help leaders, managers and teams overcome innovation and communication challenges at the workplace.  

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