Overview
In this activity, participants role play DISC-based scenarios.
Resources: Paper, markers, flip chart (optional). Pre-set scenarios.
Space Required: Can be indoors or outdoors
Group Size: Small to large. Participants work in pairs and triads.
Total Time: 30 minutes
- 5 minutes for the introduction and group formation
- 3 to 5 minutes per activity round, with mini debrief
- 5-minute small group debrief
- 5-minute large group debrief
Prerequisite: None
Set Up
- Participants should sit in pairs or triads
Running the Activity
- Have participants sit in pairs or triads facing each other.
- Each group will receive a role-playing scenario sheet.
- The first pair will act out the scenario and give each other feedback at the end. In triads, have the two act out the role play with the third person acting as observer and providing feedback.
- Each person in the role play will be assuming one style of the DISC model and will reactive and respond in the scenario as a person who embodies that style. For instance, a role play could include a new car buyer and a car salesman. The new buyer could be an “C”/Conscientious/Owl. The salesperson would be selling from the standpoint of an “I”/Interactive/Parrot.
- In this scenario, the Parrot salesperson could be trying to sell the Dove on the speed of the car and unique features while the Owl cares most about the gas mileage.
- The participants can assume a role using their natural style. If the participants have learned about their opposite styles the can assume a different/stretch style for a challenge. So, an Owl participant could try being the Parrot salesperson.
- Optimally, you should have enough time for each participant to role play a comfortable and stretch style and to have received feedback. Each round is a conversation of about 3 to five minutes.
- Bring the small groups back together for a large group learning share.
Scenarios
- Manager and employee discussing a raise/promotion
- New car salesperson and new car buyer
- Two friends trying to pick a movie or social event
- Two committee members discussing technology choices
- Two family members deciding on a vacation spot
Suggested Learning Outcomes
- Style Refinement
- Valuing Differences
- Communication
Activity Guidance and Notes
This activity gives the participants a chance to see and hear styles in action from the role play and observer standpoint.
Review
Suggested questions to ask:
- How was it to negotiate from your personal style?
- What were some of the difficulties in assuming the role of a stretch/different style?
- Were you able to see more clearly styles in action as the observer?
- What did you learn from the activity?
- What will you change when dealing with other styles?
- What can you do to bridge the gap between styles and improve communication?
