THE DOVE STYLE
The Harmonious, Calm and Helpful Dove
The Dove style is supportive and empathetic. If you’re familiar with the DISC model, Doves represent the Supportive S style. People who are attuned to the Dove style bring harmony where they go and create a safe, stable, and predictable environment for themselves and others. They tend to be soft-spoken and enjoy close relationships in tight circles. Doves are the people who are always there for you when you need them, whether it is being a good listener or need help when times get tough.
Like real-life doves, people with the Dove style feel safe in flocks and like to stick to familiar social circles. They are helpful, kind, and willing to share their resources. Like many flock animals, they prefer to blend into a crowd and prefer not to stick out as they generally do not like to be the center of attention. They would rather share credit with their team and point out the contributions of others. Flying under the radar suits them just fine.
At work, Doves like to build consensus around processes and decisions. They make sure everyone’s voice is heard and that people are comfortable before moving forward. They make sure everyone has the support they need to get the job done and are able to take their own egos out of the decision-making process to allow the team to reach its greatest success. Dove leaders build incredibly loyal followers as they genuinely listen to the needs and concerns of team members and demonstrate that they care.
As creatures of habit, Doves prefer environments that are steady, stable and predictable. They are not high on the risk-taking scale and would like to take their time and think things through by trying something new. If a thought pops into Dove’s head, they make sure it is worth sharing before they blurt it out. After all, the worst thing they could do would be to embarrass themselves or somebody else.
Their workspaces feel homey and comfortable. If you visit their desk, be prepared to have a sincere conversation about how your day is going before you get down to business. They are the office peacekeepers as they look for compromise and face-saving solutions to keep tempers cool.
The Doves’ tendency to put the needs of others before their own can sometimes be misunderstood. When they overdo it, a Dove’s kindness can be mistaken for weakness. The desire to keep the peace can stop them from bringing up significant issues. Thoughtfulness can be seen as passivity. The tendency to be helpful can lead to over-commitment as they hate to say, “No.” Fortunately, all it takes is a little self-awareness and flexibility and Doves can be powerful contributors and team members. Do you value sincerity, stability and helpfulness? If so, you probably have some Dove in you.
