Surrounded by Idiots Programme

“Why do we sometimes feel ‘surrounded by idiots’? Why is communication so often ineffective? Thomas Erikson’s 12-million-copy bestseller explains it simply: behaviour differs at a fundamental level. Using the four colour-coded styles (Red, Yellow, Green, Blue), he shows us how to communicate better, collaborate more effectively, and work with less friction.”

His work builds on proven theoretical foundations and is underpinned by the practical DISC behavioural analysis system — a tool successfully applied to millions of individuals and organisations worldwide to increase self-awareness, understand others, and drive individual impact, team cohesion, and organisational excellence.

gbd People & Performance is proud to be an authorised Level 1 Partner of ‘Surrounded by Idiots’, bringing Thomas Erikson’s insights, assessments, and workshops to an ever-growing audience in Ireland and beyond.

Below are the key areas where DISC and Surrounded by Idiots can deliver real value to you or your organisation:

Where DISC and Surrounded by Idiots Deliver Real Value

Recruitment & Hiring

For recruiters (in-house or professional) who want to ensure strong new-hire fit and long-term retention — especially at shortlist or final decision stage. DISC adds a behavioural lens beyond a concise Resume and interview:

  • Does the candidate’s natural style fit the role?

  • Will they complement the team and leader?

  • How can we best engage them once selected?

Our services include:

  • Role DISC profile creation (bespoke behavioural “mirror” for the job)

  • Candidate DISC assessments + comparison to role profile

  • Candidate briefing on their style and role expectations

Sign on a storefront window that says 'We Are Hiring' and 'Apply Today' with a blank space for additional information, representing companies recruitment process

Onboarding & New Hire Integration

For department heads, team leaders, and HR responsible for fast, smooth onboarding. DISC accelerates trust and productivity by answering:

  • What styles dominate the existing team?

  • How does the new hire’s style fit?

  • How should we communicate and work together?

Our services include:

  • New hire “How to Work with Me” profile

  • Team “How to Work with Us” profile and session

  • Team integration mentoring and check-ins

Two women in an office, smiling and shaking hands, with one woman facing the camera and wearing glasses and a black blazer, representing an employee and staff on-boarding process with the Human Resources department

Sales & Customer Interactions

For sales leaders, CEOs, and salespeople who want higher close rates and stronger client relationships. DISC helps answer:

  • How does my natural style influence my sales success?

  • How can I sell effectively to every behavioural type?

  • How can we improve repeat business through better engagement?

Our services include:

  • Custom DISC sales role profile

  • Individual salesperson DISC coaching

  • Full sales team DISC workshop and role optimisation

Two people, a woman and a man, engaged in a conversation while sitting on a sofa in a modern office space. The woman is taking notes in a notebook, and there is a laptop on the table in front of them, representing an sales process.

Team Building & Collaboration

For any team (corporate, charity, public sector) seeking better understanding, reduced conflict, and stronger performance. DISC helps answer:

  • How can we communicate more clearly and understand each other better?

  • Are our roles optimised for individuals and the team?

  • How do we prevent recurring friction?

Our services include:

  • Surrounded by Idiots for Teams (full DISC assessments + workshops)

  • Role and organisational refinement

  • Ongoing team coaching and check-ins

Four people holding hands in a circle in a collaborative office setting, respresenting team-building exercises.

Leadership & Management Development

For anyone leading, managing, or inspiring others — from project leads to CEOs. DISC helps answer:

  • Is my leadership style effective?

  • How can I leverage my natural behaviours to become a better leader?

  • What are my next steps for career growth?

Our services include:

  • Surrounded by Idiots for Leaders (self-awareness + debrief)

  • Optional 360-degree behavioural feedback

  • Bespoke mentoring programme (6-step pathway)

A silhouette of two rock climbers on a mountain summit with a mountain range in the background, representing the development of leadership in assisting others to reach their best potential

Conflict Resolution & Communication

For organisations, teams, or individuals facing persistent conflict or communication breakdowns. DISC helps answer:

  • Is the conflict real disagreement or misunderstanding?

  • What can I learn about the other person’s viewpoint?

  • How do we move forward constructively?

Our services include:

  • Issue identification and reframing

  • DISC-based conflict awareness and behavioural adaptation

  • Structured resolution planning and agreement

Top-down view of four rowers in a racing shell, holding oars, on dark water during a boat race, representing performance developmen and continued professional development.

Professional Development & Performance Coaching

For anyone wanting to improve performance, overcome barriers, and achieve personal or career goals. DISC helps answer:

  • Where do I want to grow?

  • What’s blocking me?

  • How do I build and maintain a clear path forward?

Our services include:

  • DISC behavioural & motivational analysis

  • Goal and pathway definition

  • Bespoke mentoring programme (6-step pathway)

A black and white photo of a chessboard with a white queen chess piece threatening a black king that has been toppled, representing a conflict attitude.

Get in touch at george@gbdpp.com to discuss how Surrounded by Idiots and DISC can help you or your organisation achieve better results.