Understanding how to use a DISC assessment for effective training can significantly improve learning outcomes and help trainers support individuals with different behavioural styles. Many trainers, mentors and coaches enjoy working with Extended DISC® tools, often without fully recognising why the system works so well. One key reason is the flexibility of the FinxS platform, which includes hundreds of competencies that allow reports to be customised to match learning styles, receptiveness and development needs. (See sample below)
Let’s look at a real case study that demonstrates how a FinxS Behavioural Style Report helped a trainer adjust his approach and improve the effectiveness of a training programme.
When a Participant’s Behaviour Suddenly Changes
John is an experienced trainer and the manager of learning and people development in a large organisation. With a degree in human resources management and over fifteen years of training experience, John is known for working closely with managerial staff who typically have demanding responsibilities.
During a training programme, one of John’s trainers reported that a participant named Fred had become unusually cautious and introverted. Fred resisted change, avoided discussion and did not engage with new initiatives. This behaviour was the opposite of what appeared in the behavioural report on file (a non-Extended DISC® assessment). It also contradicted John’s own experience with Fred, whom he knew as cooperative, decisive, friendly and eager to adopt new ideas.
The behavioural report in Fred’s file, obtained only a few months earlier, had described him as outgoing and competitive with persuasive traits. Nothing in the report explained the sudden shift.
Recognising That Something Deeper May Be Happening
By coincidence, John discussed the issue with one of Extended DISC®’s resellers. After hearing about Fred’s behaviour, the reseller recommended obtaining a FinxS Behavioural Report. He explained that Extended DISC® assessments identify both unconscious (natural) and conscious (adjusted) behavioural styles. The report John had previously relied on measured only conscious work style and offered no insight into Fred’s underlying behavioural tendencies.
The reseller suggested that Fred might be experiencing stress. Under stress, individuals often revert to their natural unconscious style because it requires the least energy. To understand the cause of the change, John needed to see both profiles side by side.
He also learned that FinxS reports can identify stress indicators for each of the 160 behavioural styles, including causes of stress, visible signs and practical steps to help reduce pressure.
Using a FinxS DISC Assessment to Identify Stress Indicators
John obtained the FinxS Behavioural Report for Fred, and the results confirmed the reseller’s concern.
The report highlighted emotional themes, stress triggers and behavioural shifts that aligned perfectly with Fred’s recent behaviour. John now had the information he needed to understand the change and support Fred effectively.
Adjusting the Training Approach for Better Results
Armed with the insights from the DISC assessment, John adjusted his communication style and tailored the training programme to Fred’s current emotional state. He provided supportive mentoring and used the personalised stress information from the report to help alleviate Fred’s pressure.
This experience also helped John realise that the original assessment on file had accurately described Fred’s adjusted work style, not his true natural style. Fred did not interact socially with John, so John had only observed the work-based version of him. Fred’s close friends and family recognised the “real” Fred reflected in the FinxS report.
Under stress, Fred had reverted to his natural unconscious style, explaining the sudden change in behaviour.
Why DISC Assessments Improve Training Effectiveness
This case shows the value of using a DISC assessment for effective training. When trainers understand both natural and adjusted behavioural styles, they can adapt their approach, improve communication and support learners more effectively. Extended DISC® and FinxS provide a deeper, more accurate picture of behavioural tendencies than tools that measure only conscious style.
Want to Deliver More Effective Training?
Use Extended DISC® assessments to understand your learners’ natural styles and tailor your training for maximum impact.
