At Velocity, we differentiate the personality traits of the DISC model to be reflected in four different Bird types: Eagles, Parrots, Doves, Owls. When you are talking with a friend, family member, or colleague, you can better position yourself in the discussion if you understand your own Bird style, as well as the style of the person you are speaking with.
In financial services, in particular, leveraging the results of a DISC assessment can create clear guides on adjusting approaches to better suit the needs of stakeholders. The DISC assessment is a reliable and valid tool that helps individuals better understand their behavioral tendencies and communication styles. By taking the assessment, leaders can gain insight into their strengths and weaknesses and identify areas for improvement. This can help them enhance their interpersonal communication and work more effectively with their colleagues, clients, and customers.
It is important to note that the DISC assessment is not a measure of personality or intelligence but a tool that provides insights into an individual’s communication style and behavioral tendencies. Therefore, it is essential to use the results of the DISC assessment in conjunction with other assessments and feedback mechanisms to gain a holistic understanding of an individual’s strengths, weaknesses, and areas for development. Utilizing coaching services will not only benefit you once you receive your DISC assessment results, it will also support your career development moving forward.
The Eagle in Financial Services
A dominant style (Eagle) is characterized by a focus on results, assertiveness, and a preference for taking charge. In the financial services industry, a leader with a dominant style may be seen as someone who is confident, direct, and goal-oriented. They are likely to be decisive, take risks, and have a strong sense of urgency.
In a financial services organization, a leader with a dominant style can be effective in driving projects forward and achieving goals. They may excel in situations that require quick decision-making, assertiveness, and a strong leadership presence. However, if their dominance becomes excessive or unchecked, it may result in others perceiving them as aggressive or controlling.
To ensure that their dominant style is working in a constructive manner, leaders with a dominant style can benefit from developing their listening and collaboration skills. They may need to make an extra effort to listen to others’ ideas, build consensus, and consider alternative viewpoints. This can help them build stronger relationships with their colleagues and stakeholders, which can ultimately improve their effectiveness as a leader.
The Parrot in Financial Services
An influencing (Parrot) style is characterized by a focus on relationships, communication, and persuasion. In the financial services industry, a leader with an influencing style may be seen as someone who is outgoing, sociable, and able to connect with others easily. They are likely to be skilled at building relationships, communicating effectively, and inspiring others.
In a financial services organization, a leader with an influencing style can be effective in situations that require negotiation, collaboration, and relationship building. They may excel in roles that involve sales, marketing, or customer service, as they are able to connect with clients and stakeholders and build trust.
To ensure that their influencing style is working in a constructive manner, leaders with an influencing style can benefit from developing their focus and attention to detail. They may need to make an extra effort to follow through on tasks and ensure that their persuasive communication style is supported by a solid understanding of the details and nuances of the financial services industry.
The Dove in Financial Services
A steadiness (Dove) style is characterized by a focus on stability, collaboration, and consistency. In the financial services industry, a leader with a steadiness style may be seen as someone who is patient, dependable, and able to work well with others. They are likely to be supportive, calm, and focused on maintaining a harmonious work environment.
In a financial services organization, a leader with a steadiness style can be effective in situations that require a steady hand, attention to detail, and a focus on teamwork. They may excel in roles that involve operations, compliance, or risk management, as they are able to maintain consistency and stability in the face of complex challenges.
To ensure that their steadiness style is working in a constructive manner, leaders with a steadiness style can benefit from developing their assertiveness and willingness to take risks. They may need to make an extra effort to speak up and assert their ideas, even in situations where they feel uncomfortable or uncertain. This can help them build their confidence and take on new challenges.
A famous example of a Dove is Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. And currently, we see Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell as an Eagle/Owl cross. This may be why we see differing remarks from Yellen and Powell regarding rate hikes and a potential recession.
The Owl in Financial Services
A conscientious (Owl) style is characterized by a focus on accuracy, quality, and detail. In the financial services industry, a leader with a conscientious style may be seen as someone who is analytical, precise, and focused on achieving high standards of quality and accuracy. They are likely to be thorough, diligent, and dedicated to achieving their goals.
In a financial services organization, a leader with a conscientious style can be effective in situations that require attention to detail, research, and analysis. They may excel in roles that involve accounting, auditing, or financial planning, as they are able to analyze complex data and make informed decisions.
To ensure that their conscientious style is working in a constructive manner, leaders with a conscientious style can benefit from developing their flexibility and adaptability. They may need to make an extra effort to consider new ideas and approaches, even if they conflict with their own preconceptions or ways of thinking. This can help them build their creativity and adapt to changing market conditions.
In finance, your investment style can also be definable based on your Bird style. You may see Eagles investing more aggressively in this bullish market than an Owl or Dove would. Parrots may not watch the market moving every second they can, like an Owl might, but they will certainly talk to anyone and everyone to understand what is going on.
Start Bird watching to guess where your colleagues stand in terms of Bird styles. You may be surprised to find the correlation between Bird styles and strategies in the market.
