Four styles
of human behaviour
The DISC model assumes there are four main behavioural styles — measurable and possible to assess. Each of us uses 2–3 of them to varying degrees, but has a preferred, dominant style.
Styles, not judgements
DISC styles are in no way evaluative — none is “better”. Each of us has two or three dominant styles, and it is these that determine how we behave on first instinct. By knowing your own style and recognising the styles of others, you can improve communication, boost effectiveness and strengthen relationships.
D · I · S · C
The four main styles of human behaviour according to the DISC model — MaxieDISC®.
Conscientious style
An analytical perfectionist — precise, cautious, logical. Values order and rules, focuses on detail and quality. A professional in their field who expects professionalism from others too; critical, but on the basis of data and facts.
AttributesGoes into a topic in detail, reads specifications “cover to cover”, spots mistakes others miss, argues logically. Tough but fair; likes to be perfectly prepared.
Dominant style
Strong will and determination in pursuing a goal. Bold, concrete, decisive — pushes forward, enjoys competition and challenges. Can be controlling, but above all effective, including in crisis situations. Feels at home in hierarchical and competitive structures.
AttributesPursues the goal and does not give up, communicates clearly and without ambiguity, sets goals and comes up with solutions. Open to change and reorganisation, motivates by example and by setting challenges.
Steady style
The true strength of calm — steady, dependable, focused on others. Attentive, empathetic, able to listen actively. Ensures that work is planned and done on time, without surprises. You can rely on them to keep their word.
AttributesBuilds trust and harmony, keeps commitments, stabilises the team and supports others. Needs time and information to make decisions — does not act hastily and dislikes sudden changes of plan.
Influential style
The life and soul of the party — full of energy, ideas and enthusiasm. Inspires, engages and “wins the crowd over”, and makes contacts easily. Paints visions and presents them vividly; if they believe in something, they can get others excited about it too.
AttributesUnfailing enthusiasm and vitality, creativity, the ability to “sell” ideas and engage others, ease of making contacts, an eye for the positives. Excellent at brainstorming and motivating.
Natural and adapted style
MaxieDISC® shows two pictures: natural — how you behave instinctively, and adapted — how you adjust to your surroundings. The gap between them is the most valuable insight in the report: it shows how much energy you put into fitting the situation.
Discover your style
Take the test and see your profile in a report — or book a call and we’ll match the right report to your situation.
Frequently asked questions about the DISC model
What is the DISC model?
DISC is a model that describes four styles of human behavior. It shows how we communicate, make decisions and respond to our surroundings. It draws on the work of William Marston and is today one of the world’s most popular tools for development and communication.
What do the letters D, I, S, C stand for?
- D (Dominant) — goal-oriented, decisive, fast-paced,
- I (Influential) — sociable, enthusiastic, relationship-oriented,
- S (Steady) — calm, loyal, valuing stability,
- C (Conscientious) — precise, analytical, valuing quality.
Does DISC assess personality?
No. DISC describes your behavioral style — what is visible on the outside — not your personality, intelligence or values. That’s why there are no „better” or „worse” styles — each one has its own strengths.
What is the difference between the natural and the adapted style?
Your natural style is your spontaneous behavior when you are simply yourself. Your adapted style is the way you adjust to a situation, for example at work. A large gap between them can mean that you put a lot of energy into adapting.
Can you change your DISC style?
Your natural style is relatively stable, but you can consciously adjust your behavior to the situation and the person you’re speaking with. That’s exactly what working with DISC is about — understanding yourself and flexibly choosing how you communicate.
Is DISC reliable?
The DISC model has almost a century of history (Marston, 1928) and continues to be developed. MaxieDISC® is a system created and validated in Poland, built on this proven model — sound and practical for everyday work.
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