One Question in a Job Interview That Changed Everything
In this article, I would like to share how DiSC® creates value, based on a real experience from a job interview during my career transition. (This is a continuation of my previous post.)
Shortly after the beginning of 2007, when I was in the middle of my job search, I was asked the following question in an interview:
“How do you understand yourself?”
Faced with this question about self-awareness, I instinctively chose to describe myself using my DiSC® results.
The interviewer was an American HR Director, and I had a feeling she might be familiar with DiSC®.
How DiSC® Instantly Transformed the Quality of the Conversation
The result was beyond what I had expected.
As it turned out, she also had a high “i” style, similar to mine. This immediately deepened our conversation. Using DiSC® as a shared language, we were able to quickly develop a mutual understanding—not only of my strengths, but also of potential challenges.
In other words, what would normally take time to explain and explore was communicated efficiently and with clarity.
Why DiSC® Accelerates Communication
DiSC® enables people to:
- Understand behavioral tendencies through a common framework
- Engage in dialogue with an awareness of differences
- Clearly articulate strengths and potential challenges
These elements significantly enhance both the quality and speed of communication.
“Essential for Good Management” — A Defining Moment
The interviewer then said something that has stayed with me ever since:
“At our company, DiSC® is the foundation of all leadership training. Managers are expected to understand both their own style and those of their team members. Without that, effective management—and true leadership—is not possible.”
This statement deeply resonated with me.
It was the moment I realized that DiSC® is not just knowledge—it is a shared language that enables organizations to function effectively.
Applying DiSC® in Practice — What I Learned Over 11 Years in HR
After going through several interviews, I was ultimately hired as the head of HR.
Before my official start date, I attended a DiSC® certification program by HRD Inc., which allowed me to begin my role as a certified practitioner.
Over the next 11 years, I continuously applied DiSC® within the organization.
After joining the company, I had multiple opportunities to support workshops for managers, working alongside a consultant named Paul who came to Japan from overseas.
Through these experiences, I observed the following impact:
- Improved quality of communication
- Stronger relationships between managers and team members
- More effective and timely decision-making within teams
- Reduced stress through better mutual understanding
DiSC® Is Not Only for Self-Awareness, but a Tool for Organizational Development
Many people see DiSC® primarily as a tool for self-awareness.
However, its value in practice goes far beyond that.
DiSC® is a practical framework that enhances both organizational performance and interpersonal relationships at the same time.
A Career Turning Point That Shaped My Expertise
I first encountered DiSC® during my studies in career counseling, almost by chance.
That encounter led me to pursue deeper learning during my career transition.
Through years of hands-on HR experience, it evolved from theoretical knowledge into a practical, applicable skill set.
Today, I draw on this experience to provide training and coaching services for organizations.
For Organizations Looking to Leverage DiSC®
To truly benefit from DiSC®, it is essential to design how it will be used continuously as a shared language within the organization.
Simply having managers and employees complete an assessment or conducting a one-time workshop is not enough.
If you are looking to:
- Develop your managers
- Improve team communication
- Integrate DiSC® with 360-degree feedback initiatives
DiSC® can be a highly effective approach.
If these challenges resonate with you, I would be happy to connect and explore how I can support your organization. Please feel free to reach out.
