DISC Graphs
After collecting an individual's responses to a DISC questionnaire, and calculating the results, the final outcome is shown on three graphs. Each of these three graphs (or 'profiles') describes a particular side of an individual's personality. In combination, the set of three is shown in the Person Analysis report.
The three graphs all follow the same basic format, showing the unique blend of the four DISC traits, or personality factors. Reading the graph from left to right, the traits are Dominance, Influence, Steadiness and Compliance.
These are easy to remember, because their initials (D, I, S and C) give the DISC system its name. DISC profiles are shown as bar graphs to establish a recognizable 'shape' for a profile. With practice and experience, the shapes associated with common personality styles become easily distinguishable.
The three graphs found in an individual's Person Analysis report may resemble one another, or diverge significantly, depending on the individual's personality. Different DISC systems use different titles for each of the three graphs, and their order can also vary from system to system. Nonetheless, the meaning and significance of each remains constant.
Current Situation (Graph I)
This is a reflection of the 'Most' responses. It is referred to as the "Work Mask". This is the most dynamic graph, as a person's 'Most' responses will vary depending on what is currently happening in their life. For example, a person high in Influence is unlikely to describe themselves as 'Most' "Jovial" if there has been a recent tragedy in their life. In this case, GRAPH I would show a drop in this person's Influence characteristic. The picture provided by the 'Most' responses tends to show how an individual is currently masking their preferred style in order to be successful. Since we instruct a candidate to complete the Person Analysis thinking of himself/herself in a work situation, GRAPH I can provide an opportunity to explore how an individual is modifying their behavior at work to be successful. GRAPH I can help an organization identify current work problems and then create a work environment where employees are working in their preferred, or most comfortable, style.
Response to Pressure (Graph II)
This is a picture provided by the 'Least' responses and is referred to as the "Raw Self". This graph represents our historical or instinctive behaviour. When we talk in terms of 'Least' responses they are usually based on past experience. For example, "I know I'm not generous?persuasive ?charming?etc." It is said that we have the least ability to modify our behaviour when faced with a pressure situation over and above everyday work pressure (a crisis). We call this graph the "Raw Self" because our instincts dictate our reaction in a crisis situation.
How You See Yourself (Graph III)
This graph is the summary of the 'Most' responses minus the 'Least' responses. It is referred to as the "Self Image". It is the most important DISC graph of the three found in the Person Analysis, approximately 70% of our total information about an individual comes from this graph. It is recognized as the most important graph because it is very static. Of the three graphs, the "Self Image" is least likely to change and therefore is a picture of an individual's preferred style of behaviour under everyday circumstances. When consulting, graphs I and II are always measured against the "Self Image" graph. It should be noted that the individual's preferred style is not necessarily how others see them.
