How to Spot a High D in 5 Minutes

DISC Style Known for Being Assertive, Risk Takers

Editor’s Note: This post is part of a series in how to easily identify and effectively communicate with one of the DISC (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, Compliance) behavioral styles. From understanding how they speak to the tone of their emails, this series will help you communicate effectively with DISC in mind. Additional details on this subject can be found in “The Universal Language DISC Reference Manual” by Bill J. Bonnstetter and Judy Suiter or TTIDISC.com.

High Ds are notorious for being challenge-oriented, assertive, risk takers. They are driven by a strong desire to win and have no problem juggling many tasks in order to reach their goals.

In general, the following behaviors often signal a High D:

• Office decorations: Status conscious and prefer a large desk or a corner office
• Gestures: They speak with big gestures and very visible hand movements
• How they stand: Forward leaning
• How they walk: Fast, like they always have somewhere to be

When conversing with High Ds, you’ll notice the following:

• How they speak on the phone: Little chit chat and prefer to get to the point
• How they speak to others: They are direct and will even interrupt or jump to their next response

When engaging with a High D, stick to business and don’t try to build personal relationships with small talk.

A High D will respond better to specific or challenging questions and a presentation full of logical facts and efficiencies. Focus on results whenever possible.