The D Style – Driven by Results
If there’s a goal to meet, a problem to solve, or a mountain to climb, the D Style is already halfway up it.
People with a high “D” (Dominance) score in the DISC model are natural drivers. They love challenges, push for results, and prefer action over talk. They’re the “let’s make it happen” voices in a meeting, and when guided well, they can help schools move from ideas to impact.
What Drives a D
D types are motivated by:
- Achievement: They want to see visible results.
- Challenge: The tougher the problem, the more energy they bring.
- Control: They prefer to set the pace and direction of projects.
- Efficiency: They thrive when things move quickly and decisively.
In a school setting, D types often show up as principals, athletic directors, or lead teachers who naturally take charge when others hesitate.
Strengths You’ll Notice
- Decisive: They don’t linger on “maybe.”
- Goal-oriented: They turn big ideas into action steps.
- Confident: They’re not afraid to take responsibility.
- Courageous: They step forward when change feels risky.
When a project needs momentum, a D-type person is often the spark that gets it moving.
Potential Blind Spots
Like all styles, the D personality has areas to watch for:
- Impatience: They want results yesterday.
- Directness: Their honesty can sound harsh.
- Low tolerance for small talk: They prefer bottom-line communication.
- Overdrive: They can push others too hard without realizing it.
D types benefit from remembering that people move at different speeds — and that collaboration, not competition, builds trust.
Working With D Types
If you’re on a team with a strong D:
- Be direct. Get to the point quickly.
- Bring solutions, not just problems. They appreciate initiative.
- Respect their time. Be concise and organized.
- Don’t take bluntness personally. It’s usually about efficiency, not emotion.
When leading a D-type, set clear goals, give them autonomy, and celebrate progress. They’ll respond best when trusted with responsibility and freedom to act.
Helping D Types Grow
Encourage them to:
- Listen before deciding.
- Ask for input early in the process.
- Balance speed with reflection.
- Recognize the value of relationship over results.
Growth for a D often means slowing down just enough to make space for others to be heard.
In the Classroom and Beyond
Students with D tendencies can be natural leaders or competitive learners. They like clear expectations, independence, and opportunities to prove themselves. Give them roles that channel their drive positively — leading a group project, managing a classroom task, or setting a class goal.
A little structure plus a lot of trust goes a long way.