Trust & Credibility: How Each DiSC Style Builds It Differently
- Sam Fraser
- Jun 6
- 3 min read
Written by Sam Fraser
We often talk about trust as if it is one universal thing. But the truth is, we all build and experience trust in different ways. That is why some people quickly click, while others take time to warm up and why misunderstandings around trust can quietly damage relationships.
When you understand your DiSC style, and the styles of those around you, you start to see trust through a much more helpful lens. Whether you want to build trust and credibility in leadership, foster stronger team collaboration, or improve personal relationships, understanding how each DiSC style builds trust can make a powerful difference.
This blog will help you explore how each DiSC style builds trust and credibility, and how you can adapt your approach to strengthen relationships at work and in life.
Did you know?
Research shows that trust is the number one driver of team performance and employee engagement (Harvard Business Review). In fact, teams with high trust report 76% more engagement, 50% higher productivity, and 40% less burnout.
Yet, building trust isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. We all give and receive trust differently.Your DiSC style can shape how you naturally build trust and how others perceive your credibility.
So, how does each style typically build trust and credibility? Let’s take a look.
How to Build Trust with Different DiSC Styles
D Style: Trust Through Results
If you’re a D (Dominance) style, you tend to build trust by delivering results and demonstrating competence. Others trust you when they see that you can get things done and follow through on promises.
Credibility builders for D styles:
Clear goals and decisive action
Consistently meeting deadlines
Owning mistakes and fixing them quickly
Showing confidence and clarity
Watch out for: If you move too fast or sound too blunt, others might feel steamrolled. Taking time to listen and showing respect for different viewpoints builds even deeper trust.
i Style: Trust Through Connection
If you’re an i (Influence) style, you naturally build trust through warmth, enthusiasm, and personal connection. People are drawn to your energy and feel safe when you’re open and authentic.
Credibility builders for i styles:
Being approachable and easy to talk to
Showing genuine interest in others’ stories
Maintaining a positive and optimistic tone
Following through on what you’ve promised (this can be a stretch but builds real credibility)
Watch out for: In your enthusiasm, don’t overcommit or forget the details. People trust you even more when they know they can rely on your word.
S Style: Trust Through Consistency
If you’re an S (Steadiness) style, trust grows through dependability and loyalty. Others value your calm presence and the way you make them feel safe.
Credibility builders for S styles:
Being reliable and predictable (in a good way)
Keeping confidences and respecting privacy
Taking time to build relationships slowly and steadily
Being supportive through changes or challenges
Watch out for: Don’t shy away from necessary conflict or important conversations. Speaking up when it matters enhances your credibility as someone who is honest as well as kind.
C Style: Trust Through Accuracy
If you’re a C (Conscientiousness) style, you build trust by being well-prepared, precise, and fair. Others look to you when they want facts they can count on.
Credibility builders for C styles:
Sharing accurate, well-researched information
Being thorough and transparent in your reasoning
Holding yourself to high ethical standards
Being clear about limitations or uncertainties
Watch out for:If you focus too much on perfection, you may appear cold or distant. Building a little more personal connection will help others trust both your expertise and your humanity.
Final Thoughts
No matter your DiSC style, building trust is about showing integrity, respect, and care but how you naturally do that will look different from someone else.
Understanding these differences allows you to:
Play to your natural strengths
Stretch into behaviours that build trust with styles different from your own
Appreciate that trust isn’t built with a one-size-fits-all approach
Next time you’re building new relationships: whether in the workplace, at home, or in your community, take a moment to consider:How does this person build and receive trust? How can I meet them where they are?
Curious what your DiSC style reveals about how you personally build trust and how you can strengthen trust with others?
A personalised DiSC profile and debrief gives you powerful insights into your style, how others see you, and how to build stronger relationships in every area of life.
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