I’ve spent the last 25 years working with senior executives and other organizational leaders across industries. During that time, I’ve seen widely differing models of success. Some great leaders were quiet and reserved, while others were loaded with energy, charm and charisma. What I’ve learned is that there is no one best style, but rather each style comes with it’s own strengths and challenges. 
When I’m working with my clients, I use a behavioral assessment called the DiSC to provide me with a quick snapshot of a leader’s strengths and weaknesses. Using this simple and quick assessment, I can learn an amazing amount about how a leader tends to behave in the business environment and how that behavior tends to be perceived. Below I provide an explanation of the four dimensions. Most people are high on either one or two of the following dimensions. See if you see yourself in these descriptions.
• Dominance (D) – Leaders high on this dimension are decisive, assertive and confident. They like to be in charge and have control over their environment. They have a sense of urgency, often moving at a fast pace and they are focused on immediate results.
• Influence (i) – These leaders are charismatic, persuasive and big picture thinkers. They are trusting and open and enjoy socializing and building relationships. They tend to have a lot of ideas.
• Steadiness (S) – These leaders have a calm style and presence. They are good listeners and are patient with and supportive of others. They are even- tempered and work to maintain stability in the environment.
• Conscientiousness (C) – These leaders are analytical, detail oriented and perfectionistic. They are practical and realistic and have very high standards.
Chances are you strongly identified with one or two of the above. So what do you need to be mindful of in terms of how your style may affect your success as an entrepreneur? You can begin by asking yourself the following questions:
• High D – Am I being realistic in terms of what I can accomplish in targeted timeframes? Am I striking the balance in my communications such that I am confident but not abrasive? Am I trying to do it all myself? Do I need to let go of something? Am I keeping myself healthy or am I running myself ragged? Will I eventually burn out?
• High I – Do I have more than just a great idea? Do I have a well-developed plan for execution? Am I keeping myself focused and organized? Do I need to remove my “rose colored glasses?” Do I oversell but underdeliver?
• High S – Am I taking the risks necessary for me to be successful? Am I willing to put myself out there? Am I willing to confront people or situations that are barriers to my success? Am I doing enough to put my business in the spotlight?
• High C – Am I holding myself back with analysis paralysis? Am I focusing on details that don’t matter in the big picture? Am I waiting to have something I deem as perfect before putting anything out there? Am I overly critical of myself? Do I come across as negative or condescending?
Being an entrepreneur requires a healthy dose of critical evaluation. Understanding your style and how it helps and inhibits you will go a long way in helping you see the risks you face and the plans you need in place to mitigate them. Embrace your style but develop yourself to the fullest!
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Lisa Tesvich is an organizational psychologist and CEO of Inspire True Leadership. She is a speaker, consultant and an executive coach to senior leaders across diverse industries. Using her practical and direct style, she addresses fundamental issues impacting performance and transforms problem situations into thriving opportunities for success. Learn more here.
