3 minute read
THE PERSONALITIES OF CHANGE
BY MELANIE ROBITAILLE, SR. STAFF WRITER AND GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Whether you’re a new or seasoned professional with EXIT, chances are you’ve heard about MIND-SET Trainer, Angel Tucker, Personality Profiles, the DISC system, or all of the above. Like a language only we speak, once someone has taken Angel’s course, you’ll often hear statements like, “I’m totally a ‘C’,” or “Don’t be such an “I.”
In a people business like real estate, one could argue it’s probably one of the most valuable of all EXIT’s training sessions, and it’s definitely a vital starting point to better understand and connect with yourself, your clients, your colleagues, your friends and family. Angel’s Personality Profiles training educates and analyzes participants with The DISC system, which refers to four main personality categories. Because we all have variances of each, taking a personality assessment reveals we’re an array of unique personality blends. Because many find themselves under pressure these days, it’s about personality and adaptability. Stress brings out something different in everyone because each of us responds to it differently. More often than not, it brings out the worst. We all have “those” traits, so here are some tips to better understand how to get ahead of potential destructive behaviors and out of your own way...
A “D” or dominant personality is results-driven, direct and self-confident. These are the natural-born leaders who like to get things done, but struggle when they feel they’re not in control. Vulnerable is never something D’s want to feel. Be wary when impatience sets in, which can lead to overstepping or tunnel vision. That’s when it’s time to stop and really listen, live a little in the grey areas between the black-and-white thinking that can often take over, and really concentrate on others and their points of view. It’s about exercising tolerance and being conscious of over-delegating or directing.
The “I’s” or inspiring types are seen as the most interchangeable. These are the eternal optimists of the world, who are highly social, love being the center of attention, and are full of charisma and enthusiasm. With a natural gift for the gab they seem to go a mile a minute, and can often be disorganized, impulsive and miss those finer details. Lacking grounding on a good day, I’s need to slow it way down and zero in on priorities when they find themselves under stress. Really take time to listen, be more discerning with trust, consider the source, and be careful of over-promising so as not to be seen as flaking out. Inspiring types must remember that those in their tribe are also working through their own issues as well. An I’s innate ability to bring people together and sprinkle some fun on things, even if only by video chat, is just what the world needs right now.
The supportive or “S” type personalities love keeping things copacetic in both their relationships and environments. These are the real team players who strive for stability. They’re patient, calm, and great listeners. They’re always willing to lend a helping hand, but sometimes to their own detriment. Change is especially hard for S personalities, who can suffer from indecisiveness without clear direction. Try to find ways to speak up and address concerns or feelings when necessary - don’t just nod along so as not to rock the boat - and be careful of over extending one’s self to the point of feeling taken for granted.
Conscientious or “C” personalities are all about the details and prefer to work solo. They like to be in the know, strive for precision and are often methodical and skeptical. These C are the critical thinkers, those who look for every opportunity to flex their expertise or gain knowledge, however they’re not big fans of just jumping in and taking risks. So, when C’s are caught in the midst of unprecedented times, they can struggle to make a move for their fear of making mistakes. Try to avoid spiraling into an “analysis paralysis.” Reach out to friends, family or co-workers, even if only via web conference or phone, and be mindful of a tendency to come off as overly critical or cold.
