In our recent blog post, we introduced the concept of Personality Intelligence and the DISC model with insights from Merrick Rosenberg. But what does this look like in action for leaders?
If you manage a team, whether you’re a business owner, department head, or team lead, understanding the personalities around you is no longer a "nice to have." It's essential.
The Hidden Cost of Personality Blind Spots
Have you ever felt like you just couldn’t get through to a certain team member? Or noticed how one employee thrives under pressure while another shuts down?
That’s not a people problem.
It’s a personality awareness problem.
Most leadership challenges come down to communication, trust, and motivation — all of which are shaped by how your team members are wired. Enter the DISC model.
DISC in Action: Managing Every Style on Your Team
Using DISC (Eagle, Parrot, Dove, Owl), here’s how leaders can shift from one-size-fits-all to a personalized management style:
Eagles need autonomy, goals, and results. Don’t micromanage — give them the end goal and get out of the way. Challenge them with big-picture vision.
Parrots thrive on energy, enthusiasm, and recognition. Let them brainstorm, involve them in team culture, and celebrate their wins often.
Doves value harmony, stability, and purpose. Be gentle with feedback, take time to build trust, and show you care.
Owls crave clarity, logic, and precision. Provide data, set expectations clearly, and give them space to perfect their work.
A great leader isn’t just a visionary — they’re a chameleon, able to flex and connect with every style on their team.
The Chameleon Leader: Building Culture, Reducing Turnover, Increasing Performance
Merrick calls this the “Chameleon State” — the highest level of Personality Intelligence. When leaders reach this level, their teams respond in powerful ways:
- - Higher engagement — because people feel seen and understood
- Fewer conflicts — because you're speaking everyone's language
- Stronger retention — because the culture supports all styles
- Improved performance — because team members are being led in the way they thrive
As a leader, your ability to adapt your style to fit your team isn’t weakness, it’s your greatest strength.
How to Get Started as a DISC-Smart Leader
Understand your own DISC style; know how you lead, communicate, and stress. Learn your team’s styles; you can do this through DISC assessments or observation. Adapt your approach; challenge the Eagles, energize the Parrots, support the Doves, and clarify for the Owls. Create a shared language; teams that understand DISC together communicate more clearly and collaborate more effectively.
Want to Become a More Effective Leader?
Watch our recent webinar with Merrick Rosenberg to dive deeper into DISC and Personality Intelligence.
At RCS, we believe that great leadership isn’t just about tools and tech, it starts with understanding people. Let us help you build stronger, smarter teams.
