Job interviews. We all dread them. It is never fun to have to try to prove your worth to another person for something you desperately want and need: a job. However, DISC can help you ease your stress for any upcoming job interviews with a few simple steps. First, it is important to become self-aware. Second, try to understand the four DISC profiles before your job interview. Third, adjust your DISC style for effective communication for a successful job interview.
Okay, so the quick tips above need to be broken down, right? Of course! Below is a breakdown of the simple DISC approach to a successful
job interview.
We can have blind spots when it comes to our style. You need to also be aware of how others perceive your DISC style, as it's not always the same. You think you're direct, but others may think you're insensitive. The assessment let's you know if constantly speaking with people throughout the day takes a lot of effort for you, and so much more! That way, when you go into your job interview, you are fully prepared to answer the little questions about who you are.
Being self-aware and understanding your DISC profile may also help you understand the type of job you plays on your strengths and motivates you. Say you’re an S-style DISC profile. Typically, S-styles prefer stability and are less comfortable with change in their job roles. Jobs in the technology start-up industry, where change can be sudden and often inevitable, is probably not the best fit for you. However, with knowledge about your DISC style, you can proactively make adjustments to excel in any job or role. The key is knowing who you are and when to make appropriate adjustments.
The DISC assessment results also tell you how you show up under pressure. Under pressure, your most natural self tends to shine. A job interview is a pressure situation. Therefore, understanding your most natural self will make you aware of your natural behaviors, and prepare to tone them down.
Everyone has a different way of doing things. This is obvious. There may be a few ways you can understanding your interviewers DISC profile type before the job interview. Did you exchange phone calls or emails before the job interview? What were they like?
D-Style profiles like their phone calls short and sweet. They want you to get to the point. Their emails will be the same way. They may even be a little informal and come off rude. I-styles are outgoing and enthusiastic. Their phone calls will be longer, and their emails will be social and friendly. They may, however, ignore the details. They could even reschedule your job interview because they perhaps overbooked!
S-Style profiles are the hardest to recognize. Look out for someone who seems agreeable, steady, and calm. An S-style may even let you choose the time and place where the interview will happen. They prefer to listen over speak. A C-style profile will be formal in their communication with you. They prefer emails over phone calls. Look out for emails that have all the facts and details laid out, almost a little too perfect.
If your communication with your interviewer is minimal and difficult to decipher, try looking them up on social outlets. Check out your interviewers Facebook or LinkedIn profile, if they have one. How do they describe themselves in their 'about' section? What kinds of things do they post to their account? Do they seem to stand out and fit a particular DISC type? Remember: No DISC style is better or worse. Embrace the DISC profiles and use the DISC profile of your interviewer to land your job!
Once you identify the DISC style of your interviewer, you may need to adjust your DISC style in the interview. If the individual interviewing you is a D-style, let them be in control of the interview process. Focus on results and get to the point. Do not focus on details too much and be ready with a quick response to their questions. With an I style interviewer, stay positive and let them talk. I-Styles want to be liked, so being friendly goes a long way. Like the D-Styles, I-styles do not care for details, so don't overuse data and facts.
If an S-style is interviewing you, be sure to take your time in the interview. Build rapport. Answer questions with many details and don't make them feel like if you're hired, too much change will happen. Lastly, if your interviewer is a C-style, do not show up late to the interview, show up early. Be prepared with your approach to answering questions with as much detail as possible. Focus on facts and data. Like them, try to be a perfectionist in your job interview.
Understanding the four DISC profiles before a job interview can go a long way. With that understanding, adjusting your DISC profile can make your job interview run much more smoothly. DISC assessments have the ability to instill you with a strong sense of self-awareness. They are also powerful when comprehending the behaviors of others. Be sure to consider our advice before your next big job interview!