DISCovery

There’s still plenty of confusion and debate surrounding psychometric testing and personality profiling. Even the terminology can divide opinion—what excites one person might raise doubts or scepticism in another. That’s why I’ve written this blog: to clear up some of the uncertainty, challenge the misconceptions, and show you just how powerful and transformative these tools can be when used well.

What’s the Deal with Personality Profiling? Demystifying DISC and Why It Works

There’s still a lot of confusion—and sometimes scepticism—surrounding psychometric testing and personality profiling. Even the language we use to describe it can divide opinion. Some people find it fascinating; others feel unsure, or even suspicious. So, I’ve written this blog to help cut through the noise, dispel a few myths, and show just how powerful profiling tools like DISC can be when used effectively.

With So Many Systems Out There, What’s the Difference?

From DISC to MBTI, to Thomas International and Insights, no one system is inherently better than another. Each brings something unique to the table and serves slightly different purposes. I’ve tried many, and while they all have value, my personal preference—and the area I’ve chosen to become accredited and train others in—is DISC.

Why DISC? Its simplicity, accuracy, and the clarity of the report layout make it incredibly accessible and impactful. I’ve used it with hundreds of individuals, and even the most sceptical participants are often left amazed by the accuracy and insight it provides—especially when it comes to improving communication and team dynamics.

Why DISC Resonates

One of the most powerful outcomes of DISC profiling is self-awareness. People begin to truly “get” themselves. They understand how their behaviour is perceived by others, and they can begin to adapt their communication to achieve better outcomes. Just as importantly, many experience a sense of self-acceptance—realising that their preferences and behaviours are not flaws, but simply different from others’. There’s no one “ideal” profile; the magic lies in the diversity.

By learning how to communicate based on others’ preferences, we empower ourselves to collaborate, connect, and perform better—both personally and professionally.

What DISC Doesn’t Cover

Before starting any DISC session, I always explain something crucial: DISC does not assess emotional intelligence, deceptive behaviours, or personal values and beliefs. The “perceived self” graph does provide a glimpse into how past experiences and current expectations might influence behaviour—but that’s just one layer.

That’s why I’ve integrated DISC with NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), performance coaching, and values-based inquiry into my practice. Each tool brings a unique lens, allowing me to support my clients at a deeper level and provide a fully holistic, tailored coaching experience.

Why Context Matters

If you’ve ever done a profile and felt underwhelmed or confused, it may not have been delivered or interpreted correctly. Context is vital—whether it’s a personal profile or one used for workplace purposes, the environment you answer the questions from matters. A good facilitator will guide you through this properly.

So, What Can a DISC Profile Reveal?

A high-quality DISC report can uncover:

• Motivational drivers

• Preferred working environments

• Goal-setting styles

• Strategies for achieving success

• Decision-making patterns

• Communication preferences (how you like to be spoken to—and how you speak to others)

• Fears and stressors

• Potential challenges and blind spots

And How Can It Be Used?

The applications are wide-ranging and transformative:

• Leadership development

• Team dynamics and collaboration

• Sales effectiveness

• Communication coaching

• Relationship building

• Motivation and engagement

• Personal growth

I’ve supported everyone from Managing Directors grappling with high staff turnover, to start-ups who want to create a strong culture from day one. Regardless of industry, when DISC is introduced to a business, the results are always impressive—and watching that transformation unfold is why I do what I do.

If you haven’t experienced DISC profiling yet and would like to explore it for yourself or your team, head over to the [DISC page] or get in touch—I’d love to help you discover what’s possible.

#bloggingtips #WixBlog