On 2 previous posts, we discussed how a coach can use the DiSC Assessment as a tool for building rapport with clients, and how to apply this knowledge to improve coaching effectiveness. Let’s look now at the “S” – “Steadiness” (Phlegmatic, or the Golden Retriever).
As a coach, and a high “S” on the DiSC profile (“Steady”), you are very interested in people, and a great listener; some may even tell you that you “really get where they are coming from.” Since you value experience, you usually advance in your coaching niche. You are reserved, relaxed and do not exhibit a lot of the high and low emotions that we tend to see in our “D” and “I” personalities. It is easy for you to “Champion” your client and people gravitate to you because you have a calm and open demeanor. You may need to focus on holding your client accountable and give more than a nudge to them. Be willing to draw boundaries with clients to avoid allowing them off the hook. And, as an “S” you don’t like surprises so the pre-call coaching form is a must for you.
How do you coach someone who is an “S”? They will most likely be somewhat resistant to change, so they may need your encouragement to take action at first. Help them to set goals and a clear action plan. And an “S” client values your opinion so be careful when they ask for advice. Help them understand the importance of getting things done (tasks) while helping them balance relationships and if you can help them see where others will benefit, it is easier for them to take action. Our “S” clients like harmony and are not comfortable with confrontation and they like structure. Although they don’t like to control others, they do not like to be controlled nor surprised.
In a future post, we will look at the “C” – the Compliant (Melancholy…the Beaver)
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