This is the latest in our series on unlocking team potential with the Everything DiSC® methodology. If you missed our introduction to Everything DiSC and why it matters for SMEs, you can check out that article here: Unlocking Team Potential: An Introduction to the Everything DiSC® Methodology for SMEs.
In this article, we’re taking a closer look at the “i” or Influence style.
What is the i Style?
People with a strong Influence style are often the “spark plugs” within teams. They tend to be outgoing, enthusiastic, and thrive on connections with others, and so are great at bringing energy, optimism to a team and, when effectively managed, they can really help to rally people around a shared vision or goal.
Likely attributes of someone with an i style
- Sociable and expressive: Enjoys meeting new people, building relationships, and working in teams.
- Persuasive communicator: Influences others through storytelling, enthusiasm, and positivity.
- Collaborative: Loves brainstorming and bouncing ideas around.
- Spontaneous and adaptable: Comfortable with change and open to new experiences.
- Motivated by recognition and connection: Values appreciation, inclusion, and being part of a group.
Common strengths of the i style
- Builds rapport and trust quickly: i’s are natural networkers who help teams gel and break down silos.
- Energises teams: Keeps morale high, especially during change or challenging times.
- Encourages collaboration: Brings people together and creates buy-in for new initiatives.
- Promotes creativity: Inspires fresh thinking and helps teams see possibilities.
- Strengthens customer relationships: Engages clients and stakeholders with warmth and enthusiasm.
Typical challenges of the i style
- May gloss over details or timelines in favour of “big picture” thinking.
- Can overcommit or shift priorities as new ideas emerge.
- Sometimes avoids tough conversations or conflict, preferring harmony.
- Meetings can run long or off-track without a clear agenda.
- Risk of “talk first, plan later”—jumping into action before all the facts are in.
A quick client example
We worked with a team in a growing SME that had several strong i-style members. The business owner (who was more of a “C” style), recognised that while these team members were great at generating energy and engaging with other team members and clients, their projects sometimes lost momentum as details slipped through the cracks. The solution? The team introduced simple meeting agendas, action lists, and regular check-ins. This allowed the i’s to keep bringing the energy, while the owner was able to ensure that the best ideas ultimately translated into real outcomes.
If you have strong i attributes, here’s how to get the best from your style:
- Anchor enthusiasm to outcomes: Before launching into a new idea, pause to ask: “What’s the goal, who needs to be involved, and how will we measure success?”
- Use a one-page plan: Keep your big ideas moving by jotting down the goal, top three priorities, owners, and dates.
- Prepare stakeholders: Build buy-in by checking in with key people informally before a big meeting or decision.
- Book ‘clarity checks’: Schedule quick follow-ups to confirm who’s doing what by when.
- Prepare for tough conversations: Use a simple, supportive script to tackle issues directly but constructively.
- Pair with a detail-oriented buddy: Collaborate with someone who loves the details to help turn ideas into action.
If you’re working with someone who has an i style, try these practical tips to help you better connect:
- Start with people and purpose: Open conversations by connecting personally and framing the “why.”
- Keep it conversational but be sure to capture actions in writing: i’s love to talk, so be clear about agreements and next steps.
- Provide recognition and feedback: A quick “thank you” or public praise goes a long way.
- Offer choices and ask for their recommendation: i’s appreciate being involved in decisions.
- Be warm but clear on tough topics: Address issues directly, but with empathy and encouragement.
- Help them complete: Confirm next steps, deadlines, and responsibilities to keep things moving.
Team practices that help i’s (and everyone else):
- Clear meeting templates: Set purpose, desired outcomes, and time limits for each meeting.
- Visual task boards: Use simple tools (whiteboards, Trello, etc.) to track progress and priorities.
- Recognition rituals: Celebrate wins and share learnings regularly.
- Decision logs: Record key decisions to avoid confusion or rehashing.
Why it matters in SMEs
The i style’s energy and ability to connect people can accelerate collaboration, project/task completion and the adoption of change, all of which are crucial in fast-moving SME environments. When paired with simple structures for follow-through, the i style can become a real driver of engagement and results.
More generally, DiSC gives leaders and teams a shared language to find that balance faster, turning natural differences into complementary strengths.
What’s next in this series
In the coming weeks, we’ll explore the Steadiness (S) and Conscientiousness (C) styles; what motivates each, how to spot them, and how to work together for better results. If you haven’t yet, check out our introduction to Everything DiSC for SMEs for the bigger picture.
Ready to See What DiSC Could Do for Your Team?
If you’re curious about how DiSC could help unlock the potential of your people, or if you’re interested in building stronger leadership and a more cohesive team, let’s chat (or click here for a preview of our DiSC-related programs).