Oct 29, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
This includes the ENTJ, also known as “The Commander.” Second only to the INFJ for rarity, it makes up less than 2% of the U.S. population. These sharp thinkers know how to set emotions aside in favor of hard-core logic and analysis. When a plan needs to be mapped out with no muss, fuss, or nonsense, an ENTJ is who you want to turn to.
And while there’s not much hidden about this personality type, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to learn…
An ENTJ’s Daily Life
ENTJ have an outside-centered way of approaching life. They see situations analytically and sensibly, leaving feelings far behind.
For them, the world is full of obstacles to overcome – and they want to be the ones in charge of taking those obstacles on. There’s potential everywhere to improve everything all the time, and they’ve not only got the eyes to see it but the drive to do it.
ENTJs have a strong focus on their careers and are highly at ease in business environments, particularly when they’re able to take leadership roles. There’s no kicking back and relaxing on the job for an ENTJ; they’re always looking around for issues they can solve.
It shouldn’t be a shock that ENTJs tend to have long-term outlooks in most anything they come up against, including their career choices. That mindset combined with a strong desire to see their employers succeed and their relentless tenacity can make them excellent corporate leaders.
Essentially, you’re going to find a lot of ENTJs in the Fortune 500 C-suite crowd.
They have the same high standards for their home’s appearance, furnishings, and functionality as they do their business stations. Also similarly, they want to take the lead at home just as much as they do at work.
This means their ideal spouses – the people they’re most likely going to get along with in a long-term relationship – need to be equally strong thinkers with the same kind of strong sense of self. Otherwise, their homelife environment can become domineering and even oppressive.
An ENTJs’ spouse may also have to act as a buffer for any children involved. While this personality type wants the best for their kids when it comes to education, opportunities, and even a friendly and committed family relationship, they also tend to have a lot of expectations in regard to discipline and results.
ENTJ Strengths
Again, leadership comes naturally to ENTJs. Very much so and often to the benefit of those around them.
They have an enormous capacity to take in large amounts of impersonal information… quickly understand complex situations… and make snap decisions. These take-charge types are strong, self-assured people who aren’t swayed by peer pressure or internal doubts.
ENTJs also adore interacting with others. As extroverts, they get most of their energy and stimulation from outside sources. And it’s not just the projects they take on and the problems they work so hard to fix.
For an ENTJ, nothing is more fulfilling and pleasurable than engaging in stimulating and intellectual dialogue. Extremely intelligent themselves, they hold anyone who can match their mental capabilities in high regard.
That’s especially true for anyone who can change their mind on a subject… though the number of people out there capable of such a feat isn’t very high.
Because the ENTJ has such an assertive and dynamic presence, high levels of self-confidence, and outstanding verbal communication skills, even the most confident people can find themselves stumbling against them in a debate.
Challenges Faced by ENTJs
Being so driven by logic and results, ENTJs can be (and often are) exceptionally bad at noticing or even caring about people’s feelings. They might understand emotional intelligence on a theoretical level, but they find it much harder to put it into practice.
At the same time, ENTJs frequently exhibit strong emotional tendencies themselves – even if they’ll work hard to hide them from the outside world. They see such responses as a weakness in anyone, themselves included.
This inclination to ignore the world of feelings and beliefs can lead them to harbor buried emotions that then build up into serious trouble. Without analyzing their own internal motivations, they can make incorrect value judgments that lead to uninformed decisions that snowball further from there.
ENTJs can, at times, naturally experience situational awareness and grasp thoughtful concepts. But even then, they may struggle in how to act on that recognition.
Overall, without an intentional focus on developing their emotional needs, recognitions, and responses, ENTJs are prone to turning harsh and authoritarian. It’s not uncommon to find this personality type imposing rules and directives on others without good cause or regard for their well-being.
And lest anyone accuse the ENTJ of being a hypocrite, they’re just as likely to do this to themselves, if not more so. Due to their major concentration on their work, some ENTJs experience physical and/or mental strain from being away from home all the time.
Coaching and Development for ENTJs
ENTJs have enormous personal power and presence that they can use to their advantage. But they’d be wise to wield this innate skill sparingly since it can too easily become oppressive, alienating those around them and coming across as self-aggrandizing.
They should always be encouraged to find and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Because when they achieve that, they’re much better able to wield their personal power in all the best ways.
Keep in mind that the ENTJ universe does not leave much opportunity for error – which can be both an intense positive and a handicap. They don’t tolerate inefficiency and don’t appreciate seeing mistakes made, much less repeated.
They’re far from the most patient people on the planet. In fact, it’s safe to say they’re naturally impatient with others who hold different opinions since they struggle to perceive things from other people’s perspectives.
The ENTJ must therefore make a conscious effort to appreciate diversity of opinion and behavior. While there definitely are times when rules need to be applied and standards need to be enforced – in which case the ENTJ can shine – there are other circumstances when it’s time to challenge that way of thinking.
Feel free to remind them of times where more subtle or gracious approaches produced excellent results. Since they’re so goal-oriented, such examples can better motivate them to reign in their dominant natures for the betterment of everyone involved.
ENTJs in the Workplace
ENTJs have a strong ability to convert ideas and potential into well-thought-out action plans. Aggressive, creative, and long-range thinkers, it’s difficult to stop these strong personalities once they decide on a course of action.
This opens powerful doors for ENTJs, with potential career routes that include:
- Chief executive officer
- Attorney
- Judge
- Manager and business administrator
- Academic administrator or professor
- Organization developer
- Entrepreneur
- Computer consultant.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Christian Higher Ed HR, Human Resources, Job Search Tools, Kingdom Company Building
Oct 28, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
One of these designations, the ENTP, is also known as “The Pioneer.” Only about 3% of the U.S. population fit into this category, skewing more heavily to men. Sharp as tacks, ENTPs are idea people all the way who enjoy interacting with the sensory world. They’re excellent at processing what they can see, hear, smell, touch, and taste, then transforming them into logical conclusions.
If you’re around an ENTP, they’re no doubt going to be studying you. So here’s how to return the favor…
An ENTP’s Daily Life
An ENTP’s main way of living is externally centered, observing everything around them as a way to direct them through life. Really, the only other personality type more acutely aware of their surroundings is the ENFP.
Yet once they do notice something, their ultimate conclusions are very intuition-based.
These extroverts have a deep desire to understand the world they live in. In which case, it’s fortunate for them that they’re very good at analyzing scenarios both quickly and accurately.
ENTPs’ observational abilities give them a clear advantage in life when it comes to interacting with their fellow humans. Because they gather so much information about any given interaction, they have an innate ability to understand people and situations alike.
It also gives them an overall optimism about what can be accomplished. They perceive opportunities everywhere because of their keen senses. Better still, they’re skilled at sharing their excitement and enthusiasm with others.
In short, it usually isn’t hard to get onboard with an ENTP’s ideas.
It can, however, be difficult to keep them engaged with certain tasks once those ideas are put into practice. They’re always looking for fresh concepts and opportunities to satisfy their insatiable curiosity and need for knowledge.
It’s therefore very common for an ENTP to have a wide range of interests and pastimes. If there’s an opportunity to learn something new, they’re probably going to want to participate.
ENTP Strengths
ENTPs dedicate their lives to pursuing a deeper understanding of their environments, placing great importance on knowledge. They’re delighted by ideas, challenges, and difficulties because they live in a world of potential.
Even though ENTPs prefer to absorb knowledge rather than make decisions, they’re highly logical and rational in their reasoning. This makes sense since people who can combine reasoning with their gut feelings tend to be intellectually dynamic.
Indeed, ENTPs are exceptionally imaginative, enterprising, and visionary people. As a result, they’re naturally inclined to a wide range of activities. And they excel at figuring out most things that pique their curiosity.
The more their intuitive abilities and insights improve with experience and intellectual development, the more they become aware of the possibilities at their fingertips… making them ever more resourceful when solving challenges.
ENTPs are proficient conversationalists with quick minds. They love verbal sparring and debating topics to the point where they’ll even occasionally flip sides just to keep the conversation going.
With all of these strengths, it only makes sense that ENTPs make natural leaders. Other people like to follow them, inspired by what they say and empowered by their ability to see both the big and little pictures.
Challenges Faced by ENTPs
ENTPs are capable of so much in so many ways. And they know it. But when they’re under stress, they can become fixated on small details and lose their capacity to think creatively.
These particulars, it should be stated, are typically unimportant to the overall scheme of things. Yet they seem like big deals to the ENTPs in that moment… and it’s very difficult to convince them otherwise once they’ve worked themselves up.
We occasionally use the term “lawyer” to describe ENTPs because they’re able to respond to situations objectively and logically after accurately and swiftly analyzing them. However, this capability comes with a downside.
They tend to base their decisions on an impartial set of laws or regulations… to the point where they’re likely to take advantage of nuances to win.
It doesn’t matter if it’s ethical. Or even what’s ultimately right or wrong. If it’s legal, it’s acceptable: That’s the ENTP’s preferred way of looking at it.
They’re fully capable of combatting this line of thinking, of course. It’s just a matter of whether they want to. And if the ENTP fails to fully examine this line of thinking, they can easily become dishonest, immoral, and worse.
In general, this personality type can struggle to define its core beliefs. So when ENTPs do have to discuss them, they may feel uncomfortable and try to rush through to another topic.
Coaching and Development for ENTPs
For all their strengths and gifts, ENTPs do struggle more in areas that demand strong self-awareness. If not this can lead to them overlooking important details in their lives.
For example, they might disregard other people’s opinions or become unduly harsh and aggressive in their conclusions. In fact, ENTPs should exercise caution in making decisions in general considering their tendency to see the subjective and nothing else.
If they don’t learn how to check themselves in this regard, they won’t be able to reach their full and best potential. At worst, they’ll find themselves emotionally and socially isolated despite their charismatic and extroverted natures.
Managers should also keep in mind that ENTPs are more interested in creating possibilities and ideas than they are in formulating plans of action. This personality type sees many (if not most) aspects of actual implementation as uninspiring and unfulfilling.
This can make it difficult for them to finish what they start. Mature ENTPs can and do cope with this; but younger, more inexperienced, or otherwise less well-rounded individuals will need encouragement to stay on task. Neglecting their sensory areas can lead to the ENTP becoming less aware of the details in their lives. When an ENTP neglects their emotional side, they may become too harsh and aggressive or undervalue the opinions of others.
ENTPs in the Workplace
ENTPs are generally optimistic, visionary, and very capable people. When faced with an obstacle, they have a knack for coming up with original solutions that work and work well. Imaginative, astute, inquisitive, and theoretical, they offer so much perspective and insight into most any situation they find themselves in.
However, since they’re more likely to be fulfilled in certain positions over others, potential ENTP job options include:
- Researcher
- Performer
- Sales agent
- Marketing personnel
- Systems analyst, computer specialist, or programmer
- Psychologist
- Business owner
- Photographer.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Christian Higher Ed HR, Human Resources, Job Search Tools, Kingdom Company Building
Oct 26, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
The ISFJ, for example, is also known as “The Protector.” They genuinely care about other people’s well-being and the state of society as a whole, putting serious thought and effort into enhancing both. It’s the most common personality type you’ll find, at least in the U.S., and is especially prevalent in women.
There’s a lot more to know about the ISFJ personality type, including intricate details that can empower a workforce when properly applied…
An ISFJ’s Daily Life
The ISFJ is an internally focused personality type. However, introverted people also possess great social skills that enable them to interact and establish a connection with others they wish to assist.
ISFJs genuinely have good hearts and tend to be highly perceptive to others’ feelings. This is very evident in how they interact with the world around them, including their gift-giving capabilities. They know just how to get people presents they will love.
It makes sense then how people appreciate them for their consideration, awareness, and ability to bring out the best in others.
ISFJs also have very developed senses of aesthetic appeal, function, and space; and they’re fantastic interior decorators. If you go to their homes, you’ll almost undoubtedly find tasteful decorations and overall pleasing aesthetics.
ISFJs might come across as simplistic enough to observers in that they’re easy enough to figure out. Yet they actually can have complex, hidden inner lives.
ISFJs are able to quickly withdraw into their own realm of possibilities. The calm realm of an ISFJ’s heart contains a secret chamber—a hidden sanctuary of eccentric exploration and creative imagination.
For ISFJs, this is the sanctuary of hidden desires, where patterns come together to form the tapestry of untold tales and concepts that bloom like uncommon, exotic flowers.
ISFJ Strengths
ISFJs are always busy gathering and retaining knowledge about individuals and circumstances that are personally significant to them and their particular value systems. Moreover, they have extraordinary memories for details and can recall them very easily.
It’s not unusual for them to remember a specific facial expression or exact part of a discussion years after it happened.
Their sense of obligation and accountability is equally strong. They tend to be very loyal people. So once they form at attachment to a person or concept, they’ll back him, her, or it wholeheartedly.
Reliable and practical, ISFJs apply that same dedication to their work. They’re almost unstoppable when it comes to finishing tasks they’ve been given.
Better yet, because they’re people persons who truly take the time to listen to what others are telling them, they more often than not understand exactly what the desired final result is really supposed to look like instead of misconstruing details.
Overall, because they take their duties seriously, people can rely on them to fulfill their obligations. Therefore, at their best, they can add immense value to many situations.
Challenges Faced by ISFJs
ISFJs are very aware of both their own internal feelings and those of others – more so than other types. However, they typically hold their emotions inside instead of expressing them.
That kind of self-control can predictably backfire on them.
If they’re experiencing too many unpleasant feelings or even a single negative feeling that’s too intense, there can be an unfortunate buildup. Left alone with their thoughts in what amounts to a one-man or -woman echo chamber, they can solidify their opinions into unmovable judgments.
Prone to overworking, the ISFJ struggles to say “no” when asked to accomplish anything. This personality type really dislikes conflict and has a tendency to prioritize the demands of others over their own.
ISFJs must learn to recognize, respect, and communicate their own needs to avoid feeling overworked and taken for granted.
This is especially true considering how a depressed or stressed ISFJ starts to ruminate about all the things that could go horribly wrong in their lives. They can develop intense emotions of inadequacy and grow to believe they can’t do anything right or that “everything is all wrong.”
This might come as a surprise considering their strengths, but ISFJs are just as unlikely to show their awareness of how others are feeling as they are about their own emotions. They’re good at listening and good at acting on that listening. But it might seem to some that there’s a strange disconnect between the two in verbally acknowledging that input.
On the plus side, when they see someone who truly needs help, they will speak up. And in certain situations, they can even assist others in realizing how they feel.
Coaching and Development for ISFJs
ISFJs work hard to achieve their very clear ideal of how things ought to be. They respect customs and rules and place a high priority on safety and politeness. And they feel a sense of responsibility to uphold systems of ethics and consideration.
As such, they’re often very resistant to the idea of adopting new approaches. They need to see, hear, or otherwise experience a truly compelling case in favor of switching from the status quo.
In general, ISFJs learn best by doing, not by applying theory or reading about it in a book. Therefore, domains requiring extensive theoretical or conceptual study are unlikely to attract them. And they’ll struggle to engage with tasks that involve too much abstraction.
They appreciate the usefulness of applications and learn tasks best when they’re demonstrated in a real-world setting.
Keep in mind that the ISFJ is a very trustworthy person. But even the most trustworthy person needs to understand what they’re being entrusted with in order to succeed.
Once they do grasp the picture – once they’ve learned the work and seeing its practical significance – ISFJs will devotedly and persistently see their work through to the end.
While they won’t admit it out loud, ISFJs do require affirmation from others. They become disheartened – sometimes intensely – when they receive negative comments or lack positive reinforcement.
The ISFJ is trustworthy, kind, and caring. But they must always remember to treat themselves with some of the same warmth and affection they freely give to others, and to refrain from being unduly judgmental of themselves.
ISFJs in the Workplace
With their genuine desire to help others and their natural capabilities of figuring out exactly how to do that helping, the ISFJ personality is very suitable for people-oriented endeavors. And their attention to detail and extremely impressive memories add further unique levels to what they can accomplish.
That’s why potential ISFJ career choices include:
- Designing
- Nursing
- Managing and administrator
- Administration assistant
- Early childhood development and childcare
- Counselor and social worker
- Paralegal
- Religious and clergy personnel
- Supervisor of offices
- Retailer
- Bookkeeper
- Household economics.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Christian Higher Ed HR, Human Resources, Job Search Tools, Kingdom Company Building
Oct 25, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
One of these designations, the INTP, is also known as “The Contemplator.” It’s on the rarer side, with just 3%-5% of people identifying this way – men more so than women. Highly intellectual, INTPs want and even need to get to the bottom of things, knowing how, what, why, where, and when. They’re essentially driven by the desire to understand the world they interact with.
This nature can obviously bring intense benefits to a wide variety of situations and scenarios, making the INTP well worth studying.
An INTP’s Daily Life
INTPs take a logical and reasonable approach to life whenever possible. That’s their natural instinct and what feels most fulfilling to them in any given moment.
This facts-and-figures outlook, however, doesn’t mean they can’t see the realm of theoretical possibilities. INTPs constantly view things from the perspective of possible changes or advancements. They use their intellect to reason through complex issues, recognize patterns, and evaluate situations in order to make those possibilities actualities.
The INTP’s real motivation, however, isn’t necessarily to change the world. It’s to understand it. They desire clarity in everything they come in contact with, especially pertaining to more scientific studies.
Once they zero in on a project, the INTP easily falls into the absent-minded professor archetype. The high value they place on intelligence and their ability to solve problems by applying reasoning to theories can and often does become consuming.
Call it an obsession on their part. Or perhaps unrecognized fixation might be a better way of describing the INTP’s laser focus on results.
Everything else falls away for them, including time.
Put another way, INTPs usually spend their lives in their own minds. They don’t tend to place as much weight or emphasis on the outside world once they become determined to find logical solutions to something.
The INTP’s innate desire to translate ideas into practical knowledge can even develop into a sense of duty. They’ll believe (rightly or wrongly) that it’s up to them to address theoretical issues and advance society’s understanding… in which case, they can be counted on to nothing less.
INTP Strengths
As already noted, INTPs place a high value on knowledge, always trying to come up with new theories or ways to support or refute old ones. They approach theories and problems with curiosity and skepticism, disobeying accepted norms and viewpoints, and formulating their own strategies to tackle the project at hand.
That latter characteristic might sound like a negative. However, it can be extremely useful in advancing scientific thought. After all, sometimes the world needs some pushback on old hangups and adherence to the status quo.
Whenever something piques their curiosity, the typically very intelligent INTP automatically wants to look for trends and rational explanations to explain it. These people can be unbiasedly critical in their assessments, and passionate about theories and abstractions.
And, as previously stated, they have no problem giving a project the time it needs (or more).
Typically tolerant and adaptable, they adore novel concepts and enjoy talking about their ideas with other people. If you can get them away from their tasks, they can be truly fascinating conversationalists – provided you care about the topics of their interest, of course.
In fact, the INTP is extroverted and extremely self-assured when interacting with people they know well. Though, when it comes to meeting new people, they’re probably incredibly shy.
Challenges Faced by INTPs
Because their feeling side is their least developed attribute, INTPs often find it challenging to provide warmth and support in close relationships. They simply don’t understand the importance of showing consideration for other people’s emotions.
In worst-case scenarios, this can lead to them becoming extremely judgmental and caustic. And even in the best of cases, it can cause tensions in personal, casual, or professional interactions alike.
INTPs in general are quick to devalue anything that falls into subjective opinion or emotion. If a decision isn’t based on facts and figures, they’re not going to understand or appreciate it.
It’s as simple as that. And if anything challenges one of their deeply held ideas, they have a bad habit of becoming inflexible.
All put together, it should come as no great surprise that INTPs can find themselves struggling with social disobedience and self-aggrandizement. These tendencies, in turn, limit their creative potential, which is unfortunate for everyone involved…
Not just for them but anyone else they could have otherwise reached.
Coaching and Development for INTPs
INTPs most often use what they consider to be unchangeable truths to communicate their ideas. Normally, this involves well-reasoned comprehension of a concept; however, that doesn’t mean they’re always easy to understand.
This can become a greater issue still since INTPs aren’t inclined to bend reality to make things easier for anyone. They should just understand – right?
Yet amazing discoveries are ultimately meaningless if only one person knows about it. So it’s critical that INTPs concentrate on clearly communicating their established theories.
This might be frustrating to them considering their usual desire to finish up a project and move on – immediately if not sooner – to the next “big thing” that interests them. However, life is filled with frustrations sometimes, and every personality type needs to learn how to deal with their own.
INTPs need to be reminded that they’re no exception in this regard, no matter how they might think otherwise.
It’s also important to know that INTPs detest working on mundane tasks. They’d much rather develop intricate theoretical answers and let others handle system implementation.
Typically autonomous, nonconformist, and creative, INTPs can have complicated personalities, leading to erratic and restless behavior. But when they’re able to work on their own theories in their own way, they can come up with the most amazing applicable ideas.
Settings that therefore foster their creative, admittedly eccentric potential can help them achieve truly fascinating things.
INTPs in the Workplace
INTPs, with their unusual thought patterns and excessive intelligence, are particularly adept in scientific studies and technological pursuits. Their impressive ability to evaluate ideas from completely new angles has already been documented time and time again. And we’ll no doubt be hearing more sensational stories from this personality type going forward.
In the meantime, possible career paths for INTPs include:
- University professor
- Computer programmer
- System analyst
- Technical content writer
- Engineer
- Lawyer or judge
- Forensic scientist
- Park ranger.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Career Coaching, Christian Higher Ed HR, Human Resources, Job Search Tools, Job Shepherd Employer, Kingdom Company Building
Oct 24, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
Take INTJs, also known as “Strategists.” Though not as rare as their cousins, the INFJs, this way of looking at the world is far from common. Only about 2.1% of the U.S. population fit into the category, with men being more likely to compared to women. These people, one way or the other, are logical, conceptual, and motivated learners who need ample alone time to truly thrive.
INTJs bring a lot to the table when they’re at their best, which is why recognizing and respecting their needs and tendencies is so important.
An INTJ’s Daily Life
INTJs are dominated by introverted intuition, a “big-picture” way of interacting with the world. They notice patterns and analyze underlying principles, then create strategies based on that empirical data.
Characterized by their strategic thinking and desire to work independently, INTJs are highly driven when they engage with a task. The urge to work can even be deemed “compulsive” for them.
Yet this seemingly cold and calculated way of viewing life includes a surprisingly optimistic outlook. INTJs see potential in everything they come into contact with, using that input to constantly revise their vision of tomorrow.
These people highly value deep connections in life; they’re not about casual connections – hence the reason why they don’t have many friends. But for the select circle they do feel close to, they’ll share everything about themselves.
This stands to reason then that they need to be very careful about what kinds of people they let into their lives.
In terms of romantic relationships, INTJ types prefer partners who show the same level of intelligence as themselves. Honesty, loyalty, and independence are some of the most important qualities they look for in a partner.
Partnered or single, an average day in the life of an INTJ might find him or her absorbed in problem-solving or strategic planning projects. That could mean:
- Tweaking a business model until it’s just right
- Building systems from scratch
- Researching something.
Regardless, they’re probably going to do it alone if they have their way. When they have that time and space to think, they’re able to shine brightest, thinking critically about everything around them as the independent thinkers they were created to be.
INTJ Strengths
We’ve already mentioned their “big-picture” tendencies, but this is truly one of an INTJ’s biggest strengths. They’re good at understanding complex systems and can easily spot areas that need improvement in any setting, though this might be especially true of business-related and tech-related situations.
If a project requires long-term thinking in general though, an INTJ’s perspective could be invaluable.
Self-assurance is another common power among people with this personality type. Once they set their sights on achieving a goal – no matter how difficult it may seem – they don’t tend to second-guess themselves.
Peer pressure or outside negativity from naysayers will more than likely slide right off them. Moreover, this tendency has a habit of growing as they get older since they have a track record of accomplishments to boost their confidence further.
INTJs are introverts by nature, oftentimes intensely so in that they’re never going to suggest going to a party or group function. That’s just not their happy place.
Yet once they do engage in conversation or other forms of interaction, these individuals can turn into excellent listeners and offer valuable advice where necessary.
Colleagues can greatly benefit from working alongside them as well. This only makes sense considering how their efforts can be boosted by an INTJ’s thoughtful evaluation of any shared tasks.
Challenges Faced by INTJs
For all their positives and potential, however, INTJs are just as human as the next personality type.
They have a distinct set of weaknesses they need to watch out for. And it shouldn’t come as any surprise that one of their unique challenges pertains to their ability (or inability) to socialize.
INTJs’ preference for logic over emotions can, frankly, make them appear coldhearted at times. In fact, acquaintances – particularly those with more emotional ways of interacting with the world – can see them as downright hostile.
While this perception may or may not be actually true, it is a fact that INTJs simply aren’t good about noticing others’ feelings. This is one obvious reason why they can find it difficult to establish close relationships.
It also doesn’t help in this department how easily they become overly focused on intellectual pursuits.
Furthermore, INTJs can be very tough on themselves and others if something doesn’t go according to plan. These individuals set extremely high standards for themselves and those around them, which can either produce amazing results…
Or lead to significant problems in the moment and down the road.
Coaching and Development for INFJs
INTJs naturally seek out and do best in jobs that engage their minds and enable them to realize what they envision. Positions that demand strategic planning skills, problem-solving capabilities, and creativity are where they’re really bound to thrive.
Managers should keep in mind that INTJs view a career as more than just a job. It’s a platform to bring ideas to life and transform them into reality.
This personality type always wants to recognize their potential to the fullest and strive to become the best version of themselves possible.
It’s therefore easy to take advantage of an INTJ in the workplace – which ultimately doesn’t benefit anyone involved. Therefore, helping these people achieve healthy work-life balances may be one of the most important areas they need coaching in.
Otherwise, they tend to overwork themselves and burn out easily.
Encouraging them to try out mindfulness tactics and stress management therapy could be beneficial. These techniques allow INTJs to take care of their mental health while still working towards their goals.
Creative hobbies can be encouraged as well. Perhaps suggest to them that they could explore new methods of expression through art or other activities that require imagination and innovation.
And if INTJs themselves are in leadership positions, they definitely need to learn soft skills on top of their business capabilities. Being intelligent alone doesn’t guarantee success – a truth they should never forget.
Knowing how to engage and inspire others is every bit as necessary… no matter how challenging the INTJ might find it to be.
INTJs in the Workplace
Because of their analytical strengths and organization capabilities, INTJs often excel in technical fields. Once they’ve selected an ideal industry, they can further narrow down positions by remembering their need for independence at work and their tendency to take on projects aimed at organizational development through innovation.
With those details in mind, possible career paths for the INTJ include:
- Scientist
- Engineer
- Professor and teacher
- Medical doctor and dentist
- Corporate strategist
- Organization builder
- Business administrator and manager
- Military leader
- Lawyer and attorney
- Judge.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Christian Higher Ed HR, Human Resources, Job Search Tools, Kingdom Company Building
Oct 24, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
This is true across the board, including with the ENFP, or “Defender” category. Making up about 8.2% of the general population and 10.2% of women, it’s marked by amazing characteristics, including the tendency to see life as a unique gift that must be appreciated to its fullest. This outlook allows ENFPs to interact with others in some pretty positive ways.
When properly understood and encouraged, the ENFP personality type can definitely make the world a better place.
An ENFP’s Daily Life
The ENFP’s main way of observing the world – and therefore interacting with it – is from the inside out, mainly through their intuition. They have a fundamental joy in life that’s hard to beat and a strong moral code that involves being true to themselves.
It cannot be stressed enough how important it is for them that their actions and values remain consistent. An ENFP who strays away from this necessity won’t end up being happy.
That might sound like an obvious statement that should apply to everyone, but it especially applies to ENFPs. They must have a sense of being authentic and following their moral convictions in order to feel that they are leading fulfilling lives.
Admittedly, they also have a strong desire to be accepted. Normally, their ethics win out when these tendencies come into conflict. But an ENFP may sometimes (particularly when younger) have a tendency to be “gushy,” dishonest, and generally “overdo” things in an attempt to gain approval.
If they figure out how to overcome that shortcoming, however, ENFPs can and do go on to become excellent at bringing out the best in other people. Combine that capability with full enthusiasm to take on life, and it should be no surprise that they’re usually well-liked.
With that said, this positive, ready-to-tackle-the-world attitude – which can too often encourage a chaotic lifestyle, or at least the appearance of such – can highly frustrate some people. This can be especially true of ENFPs’ own children, particularly those with strong inclinations toward assessing life more critically.
This temperament difference can mean the parent is perceived as being inconsistent and hard to understand. There’s also the chance for ENFPs to be controlling in how they raise their kids at times, which can cause further strife.
Then again, they may just as easily desire to be their child’s greatest friend instead. It can depend on the day and situation as much as the person and personality combination.
On the overwhelmingly positive parenting side, ENFPs and are very good about instilling their value systems in their offspring. That’s a priority on their part, and one that almost always bears fruit.
ENFP Strengths
Warm and gregarious, ENFPs are usually very intelligent and full of promise. A large part of that promise comes from how they’re traditionally passionate and excited about so much that comes their way.
The way they see the world, it truly is full of possibilities to see sights, do things, and help others adopt that same mentality. This mindset gives them a much greater capacity to uplift and encourage others than we see in other personality types.
It also means it isn’t hard to convince an ENFP into an activity. They’re usually game to try something new for the experience alone.
ENFPs possess a remarkably diverse array of abilities and aptitudes. If they’re interested in a project or study, they’re probably going to be good at it. Moreover, once they start something, they’re probably going to finish it.
Most ENFPs are excellent communicators. They value their interpersonal ties highly and are genuinely kind and interested in people.
Put another way, this personality type is relationship oriented. And they’ll remain loyal to those in their life just as long as they have strong moral principles to tie them down.
It should also be noted that ENFPs enjoy a little excitement in their lives. So they do often pair best with people who welcome change and novel experiences.
The ENFP may appear aimless and purposeless to casual observers (or more critical mindsets, as already noted). But in reality, they’re highly consistent individuals who uphold a strong sense of moral principles throughout their lives.
Challenges Faced by ENFPs
When an ENFP does go wrong, he or she can become highly skilled at manipulation. Endowed with the gift of gab, it’s easy and even instinctive for them to get others to sign on to their projects and plans.
And even the best of the best ENFPs aren’t immune to making grave mistakes in judgment. Although they possess a remarkable ability to intuitively discern the truth about people and circumstances, they can still get judgmental and draw incorrect conclusions.
In addition, when an ENFP finds himself or herself up against projects they’re not interested in, they can be more prone to ditching the task at hand. Or the relationship, for that matter, whether by withdrawing or by ending it altogether.
Their constant focus on potential outcomes may also cause them to grow disinterested in the current state of affairs. At the same time, they’re highly sensitive and aware of their surroundings, continuously scanning their environment… which means they’re more prone to suffering muscle tension.
Because they’re drawn to the world of thrilling possibilities, ENFPs tend to discount or outright overlook the minutiae of daily existence. They just don’t care about doing intricate maintenance-related duties and take no joy when they’re forced to complete such activities.
Coaching and Development for ENFPs
When ENFPs maintain their composure and focus, they tend to achieve great success in their pursuits. However, as previously noted, some of them have a tendency to give up on projects when they get enthusiastic about a new opportunity.
This flightiness naturally prevents them from ever reaching their full potential.
That’s why ENFPs should be encouraged to concentrate on seeing their tasks through to completion. And feel free to give them some time and space to process what you say. In contrast to other extraverted personality types, ENFPs actually require alone time in order to refocus and confirm that their actions align with their ideals.
Resistant to being categorized or controlled, they have a strong drive to be independent. And they don’t necessarily want to manage others either, hating to see anyone suppressed, no matter who.
In general, ENFPs are content people. But if they’re forced to perform boring chores or adhere to rigid timetables, they could get upset.
As a result, they function best in environments that allow them to be highly flexible. And they can equally thrive when they get to collaborate with others and share ideas.
Moreover, if they’re enthusiastic about their jobs, they can be highly productive with minimal guidance.
ENFPs in the Workplace
Charming, risk-takers, ENFPs are equally sensitive and people-oriented with a wide range of abilities. It’s really just a matter of whether they can stay focused and learn how to follow through. Because when they do achieve that state, their gifts can do so much to fulfill both themselves and those around them.
All told, potential career choices for ENFPs include:
- Consultant
- Teacher
- Actor
- Entrepreneur
- Advisor
- Diplomat or politician
- Journalist or writer
- Computer programmer, systems analyst, or computer scientist
- Television reporter.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Career Coaching, Christian Higher Ed HR, Job Search Tools, Job Shepherd Employer
Oct 17, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
Consider the INFP, often referred to as “The Optimist.” This kind of character makes up about 4%-5% of the U.S. population, and is very focused on “the big question”: What is their purpose in life? The answers they’re always meant to find are people-oriented in nature. This brings both positive personality traits and negative ones with it, as is true of every other human tendency.
Here are the basics of what you need to know when interacting with an INFP…
An INFP’s Daily Life
If you’re an INFP, you’re overall an internally focused individual. In other words, you go through life making judgements and decisions based on your feelings or how available data aligns with your personal values.
Compared to other intuitive feeling types, INFPs are primarily concerned with improving people’s quality of life. But they’re also very “me” focused in that they’re highly motivated by discovering their own life’s purpose.
Why are they here in this world for? In what way can and should they best benefit humanity? These are the kinds of questions that drive them.
It can’t be stressed enough that this is a lifelong pursuit for INFPs. They’re constantly searching for the underlying meaning and the truth of things.
And every experience and bit of information is filtered through their value system.
Definite introverts, they’re perfectly capable of interacting with others. However, they need their alone time in order to regroup and re-energize.
INFP Strengths
Self-driven perfectionists and idealists, INFPs put a lot of effort into setting goals and achieving them. Yet they’re often kind, compassionate, and good listeners who have a calming effect on others.
They have a very strong tendency to care about those around them and a sincere desire to understand people. Because they truly want to assist people – complete with an intuitive understanding of their viewpoints and feelings – INFPs are excellent mediators who see a lot of success in resolving interpersonal problems.
They’re generally adaptable and laid-back, and people can almost always tell when they’re being genuine. This makes the INFP personality type a valuable friend and confidante more often than not.
The more they get to know someone, the more likely they are to become sociable and even extroverted.
When their moral understandings come under attack, they can take on the role of aggressive defenders and fiercely advocate for what they believe in. An INFP typically develops a “cause” for a project or career they’re enthusiastic about.
And, despite not being particularly meticulous people, they will labor tirelessly to cover every last detail concerning their chosen program.
Challenges Faced by INFPs
Conflict irritates INFPs. In fact, it’s safe to say they’ll do just about anything to avoid it.
When faced with social tension, you’d better believe they’re going to tackle it from a sentimental standpoint. Moreover, they won’t really care who’s right or wrong. Finding the truth, unfortunately, isn’t their automatic objective.
INFPs are much more concerned with how the disagreement makes them feel. And since disagreements make them feel depressed, they seek to resolve them as quickly as possible. End of story.
Unsurprisingly, this tendency can occasionally make INFPs appear irrational. When faced with stress, INFPs frequently abuse reason, stating fact after (oftentimes false) fact in a fit of rage.
Another thing to know about INFPs is that they’re usually utterly unaware of the little things that go into maintaining a normal life. They might not notice “big things” for extended periods of time. Yet they’ll zoom in on the smallest, least important details.
For instance, they won’t even know there’s an unattractive stain on the carpet… yet diligently and carefully remove a single dust particle from a book cover.
Coaching and Development for INFPs
While it’s already been implied in the previous segment, let’s be blunt here: It bothers INFPs to cope with logic and hard facts. They find it hard to deal with objective judgment because they are so focused on their emotions and the larger (but often short-term) human situation.
Impersonal judgment is not their strong suite since, by nature, they simply do not comprehend or accept its validity. While it is possible for them to master straightforward analysis and become very rational, that’s through education and effort, not through any innate skillsets.
Even so, INFPs have very high standards. Perfectionists and great achievers, they tend to be critical of themselves and undervalue what they do.
And this doesn’t mean they automatically hold others’ efforts in high regard though. INFPs may actually find it difficult to collaborate on group projects or social settings, especially when they can’t control their environment.
That’s why INFPs need to practice striking a balance between their lofty goals and the demands of daily existence. Otherwise, they may get disoriented and immobilized about what to do with themselves and become perpetually discontent with their standing in life.
When operating from their fully developed sides, however, INFPs are capable of amazing feats and have played a significant role around the globe as human catalysts.
INFPs in the Workplace
Typically, INFPs are good writers. Even though they may find it difficult to communicate orally, they’re incredibly adept at defining their thoughts and feelings down on paper.
When they’re working for the common good and don’t have to apply strict reasoning, they perform at their best. This means potential ideal vocations for INFPs include:
- Author
- Social worker
- Educator
- Instructor
- Psychologist
- Counselor
- Psychiatrist
- Artist
- Religious and clergy personnel.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog
Oct 17, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
Consider the INFJ designation, nicknamed “The Defender.” It’s the rarest of the 16, making up just 1% of the U.S. population; and it’s even more uncommon for a man to be one. Sometimes described as a “walking contradiction,” these individuals are pretty secretive about their personal lives, allowing only a very small inner circle to know them inside and out.
Yet it is possible to understand an INFJ – no matter how guarded they might be.
An INFJ’s Daily Life
If you’re an INFJ, your way of life is mainly internal. You use your intuition to process information first and foremost.
Having structure and order in the outside world is very important for INFJs – even if they may display somewhat disorganized workspaces or living areas. Absolute order, after all, is difficult to maintain and probably requires a much more externally minded focus.
INFJs spend a great deal of effort figuring out the most effective method for finishing tasks, and they continually establish and reassess their priorities. Yet they function intuitively and completely spontaneously within themselves.
Incredibly perceptive, INFJs have an innate understanding of people and circumstances without necessarily having in-depth knowledge of the topic at hand. Moreover, most of the time, they’re correct – and they know it.
They simply “feel” things, sensing what’s real and what isn’t. As an extreme illustration of this tendency, some INFJs have described having intense psychic feelings about loved ones… only to then learn they were involved in an automobile accident or some other tragedy.
Other personality types can and do laugh and belittle this kind of behavior, with some understandable reason. And even INFJs themselves may not fully comprehend their intuition, at least not to the point where they can describe it. Yet it’s real and can actually be quite useful.
Incidentally, the lack of support about their “powers” is part of why most INFJs are guardians of their inner selves, disclosing information about their personal lives only as they see fit.
Though they can attain significant inner depth and depth of feeling, INFJs do not always have an easy life.
INFJ Strengths
INFJs are profoundly complex. The main reason being that many facets of their personalities appear to be at odds with one another. Yet it’s these very contradictions that are what most observers find fascinating about INFJs.
They might describe themselves as extroverted introverts, calm yet emotional, pessimistically optimistic or optimistically pessimistic, and/or logically creative or creatively logical – just to name a few possibilities.
As already described, INFJs have a great deal of faith in their gut feelings and intuitions. Yet, thanks to their internal-external struggle, they’re often not as judgmental as other structured personality types.
They actually make intense efforts to be kind in order to prevent harming others since they care about their feelings.
Patient, loyal, and protective by nature, INFJs are typically devoted parents who share close ties with their children. They have high expectations for their children and urge them to reach their full potential and have high expectations for them.
While this can occasionally turn into obstinate and hard-nosed guidance, most children of INFJs receive profoundly compassionate and committed parental guidance.
They have equally high standards for themselves, striving to live in accordance with their strong moral convictions and systems of values. INFJs are, in some respects, gentle and laid-back due to the emotion component of their personalities.
But they’re very value-oriented and don’t believe in compromising on what they hold dear.
Challenges Faced by INFJs
On the downside, the INFJ nature almost always encourages them to be private – to a fault – and challenging to understand. Downright secretive at times, they have a bad habit of withholding aspects of who they are.
Along those lines, INFJs aren’t always the best speakers. They can and do listen with the best of them, but when it comes to expressing what they’re thinking, they can too easily trip over their own language.
In addition, because they’re so intuitive with such justifiable confidence in their gut feelings, they run the risk of automatically assuming they’re right even when they’re not. This can mean that the INFJ becomes narrow-minded, disregarding the opinions of others in some situations.
They’re also too peace oriented. Because they seek harmony so much for both themselves and especially those around them, they easily fail to see when conflict can actually be a positive.
For instance, they might very well avoid telling someone that they’re offended… even though doing so could actually strengthen the relationship long-term.
In the same regard, the typically calm INFJ can become agitated or angry when confronted with conflicting situations. And if the stress builds up too much, they can internalize conflict into physical health issues.
Coaching and Development for INFJs
INFJs are perfectionists who question if they’re reaching their full potential. Never totally content with who they are, they always think there’s something more they could be doing to better the world and themselves.
Since they consider growth to be a continuous state of being, they don’t typically take the time to celebrate their successes. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t compliment them, however; appreciation is always encouraging to hear.
INFJs typically shine in roles that allow them to be creative and relatively autonomous at work. They’re naturally drawn to the arts, though many do quite well in more scientific studies since they can apply their intuition there. And service-oriented vocations are another great spot to encourage them toward.
They do, however, struggle to handle minuscule details and intricate assignments. Their tendency is to either steer clear of these situations altogether… or get so engrossed in the minutiae that they lose sight of the larger picture.
It’s also the detail-engrossed INFJ that can get quite judgmental of others who aren’t so focused. So managers should watch out for that.
INFJs in the Workplace
Don’t let the INFJ’s introverted nature fool you. This grouping’s ability to read people and desire to help makes them very suitable for many people-oriented professions. Always looking for ways to grow and encourage others to grow, their gifts can bring new depths of understanding to those who seek their expertise.
Potential INFJ career possibilities include:
- Religious and clergy positions
- Employment instructors,
- Physicians and dentists
- Alternative medical professionals, such as reflexologists and chiropractors, psychologists and psychiatrists
- Social professionals and counselors
- Artists and musicians
- Photographers
- Early childhood development and childcare professionals.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Career Coaching, Christian Higher Ed HR, Job Search Tools, Job Shepherd Employer
Oct 15, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
Take the ESFJ, also known as “The Caregiver.” Quite common relative to the other 15 categories, it makes up a good 12% of the U.S. population. But that hardly means it should be taken for granted. ESFJs are extreme people persons who can have some of the best affects on their fellow human beings – something societies can always use more of.
Here’s what you need to know about ESFJs, what makes them tick, and where they best fit into the workforce.
An ESFJ’s Daily Life
If you’re an ESFJ, your main way of evaluating and interacting with life is externally oriented; you handle situations based on your external facing view and how that aligns with your personal experiences.
And those personal values are very, very people oriented. ESFJs absolutely adore their fellow human beings, taking a genuine interest in those around them. They collect precise, in-depth information about people, then transform that data into affirmative judgments.
ESFJs tend to have strong beliefs about how things ought to be and don’t hesitate to voice them. Yet it’s important to realize that their moral codes are often shaped more by the society they live in rather than personal convictions. Moreover, they have an intense need for social acceptance and crave friendly environments.
On the plus side, this makes ESFJs very supportive of others and highly dependable. Detail-oriented in the extreme, they place a high value on stability and security, and take their tasks seriously. Moreover, they’re good at it, identifying tasks quickly and exceeding expectations in completing them .
However, they do seek recognition for their contributions and authenticity, and they’re easily wounded if others act indifferently to them… assuming negative intentions even when none exist.
ESFJs share many traits commonly associated with women in our culture. But ESFJ men don’t tend to look feminine at all. While they may become sensitive as you get to know them, male ESFJs will come across as very macho and female ESFJs as very feminine.
Either way, they place a high value on stability and tradition, seeking stable lives where they can spend ample time with friends and family.
ESFJ Strengths
Since they tend to be raised and surrounded by strong, moral, and genuinely goodness-centered value systems, ESFJs are often the kindest, most giving people you’ll ever meet. Armed with a high degree of social awareness, they will give you anything, no questions asked.
As such, they have a unique ability and desire to bring out the best in others. And their talent at reading people and discerning their perspectives is impressive. So it only makes sense that people appreciate being around them.
ESFJs have a long list of “best” traits, including:
- Warmth
- Sensitivity
- Cooperation
- Helpfulness
- Tact
- Practicality
- Thoroughness
- Consistency
- Organization
- Enthusiasm,
In short, they’re incredibly giving, vivacious individuals who derive a great deal of personal fulfillment from seeing others happy.
Challenges Faced by ESFJs
For all their positives, ESFJs may acquire extremely dubious values if they don’t have the opportunity to evaluate them against a sound external system.
In these situations, since they lack an internalized sense of morality, they typically and sincerely believe their distorted value system to be true. This lack of intuition keeps them from seeing the broader picture, and they’re good at finding plenty of justification for whatever moral infraction they choose to defend.
Compounding this, ESFJs lack the intuition of their ENFJ cousins to help them comprehend the true effects of their actions. They believe their behavior is ethical and therefore justified even when it’s really all about them and their personal objectives.
Since ESFJs typically enjoy a good deal of popularity and know how to work a crowd, they can also be skilled manipulators. In fact, their extraverted feelings can push them to control and manipulate.
Because ESFJs are such compassionate people, there are occasions when they find it difficult to acknowledge or accept a tough truth about a person they hold dear.
An ESFJ who hasn’t matured to his or her full potential may also be prone to feelings of insecurity and excessive people pleasing.
Coaching and Development for ESFJs
Every ESFJ has an innate need to be in charge of their surroundings. They seek closure and demand organization wherever they are. That’s why well-structured environments suit them the best.
You won’t generally find them enjoying tasks requiring impersonal analysis or abstract, theoretical concepts.
Managers should be fully warned that pairing an ESFJ with a more free-spirit colleague can be disastrous without proper preparation on both their parts. They think everyone should respect and adhere to the laws and regulations of authority – and they don’t take kindly to contrary thinking.
Being so conventional, ESFJs would much rather follow the path less traveled instead of trying something new. Their need for security motivates their eager adoption and devotion to the established system’s rules. And they may occasionally accept norms without thinking about them or asking questions.
Speaking of which, ESFJs are usually very aware of gender norms. So much so that they often feel most at ease in a role that corresponds with cultural gender expectations.
ESFJs in the Workplace
Being so people-oriented, the ESFJ personality type can find plenty of opportunities that reward both them and those they interact with. Just as long as they work hard to acknowledge and overcome their sensitivities and struggles, they can be extremely useful and effective members of society.
Potential ESFJ job possibilities include:
- Household economics
- Nursing
- Education supervisor
- Child welfare
- Family-based medicine doctor
- Religious work (including clergy positions)
- Office supervisor
- Social work and counseling
- Accounting and bookkeeping
- Administration assistant.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog, Career Coaching, Christian Higher Ed HR, Job Search Tools, Job Shepherd Employer
Oct 11, 2024
In the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator framework, personality types represent various approaches to life. Each one is a fascinating study with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. And people have succeeded immensely by understanding them better.
Most people take the MBTI in order to understand themselves. Understandably so. However, this tool is just as useful in understanding others, especially for managers and HR personnel.
There are 16 different MBTI personality types, which might seem like a daunting list to familiarize yourself with. Yet the benefits can be intense.
When we really know who we’re working with, we’re in a much better position to maximize their potential.
One of the 16 is known as ESFP. Nicknamed “The Artist,” it makes up around 8.5% of the U.S. population, with more women fitting into the category than men. It’s the third-most common feminine personality type but the seventh for men. Either way, it’s marked by the love of spotlights, entertainment, and excitement. (“Give my regards to Broadway!”)
Yet the vivacious ESFP personality is much more than a drama show. As a closer study reveals, it can add many positives to the fabric of society.
An ESFP’s Daily Life
ESFPs are first and foremost externally centered individuals who rely more heavily on their ability to see, hear, touch, taste, and smell than their internal musings. In fact, they get intense enjoyment out of interacting with their physical senses, engaging with the world in a consistent hands-on manner when they have it their way.
ESFPs generally find immense enjoyment in beautiful things and have a superb sense of space and function. If they’re wealthy, they probably own tastefully decorated homes with exquisite possessions. And even if they’re not, an ESFP will very likely have a deep appreciation for excellent dining and great wine, among other things.
This vivacious, upbeat, and entertaining personality type adores people and novel encounters. They enjoy drama and excitement in their lives and live for the moment, drinking it in whenever possible.
The whole world is a stage for an ESFP. Quite literally, at times. They enjoy performing for audiences and otherwise being the center of attention. Moreover, they’re good at engaging with their fellow creatures. So most people are more than happy to let them have the attention most of the time.
ESFPs are always entertaining, making others happy by putting on a show for them. And they take great pleasure in getting others to interact with their own senses. In fact, nothing would make them happier than to live life as the entertaining host in an endless celebration.
This does mean they’re not necessarily enthusiastic about rules, regulations, and expected schedules. But it’s easy to love and admire ESFPs nonetheless. Their tendency to accept everyone around them is one of their greatest talents.
They’re positive and energetic, and truly enjoy practically everyone. The way they see it, everyone is someone to engage with.
Deeper still, an ESFP will commonly view everyone (or at least almost everyone) as a friend. And they’re consistently kind and giving to those who fall into that very broad category.
ESFP Strengths
ESFPs are typically very empathetic and concerned about the welfare of others, so they’re naturally kind and giving people. They have a keen sense of social awareness and can identify these problems faster than other personality types – offering a helpful solution in a friendly manner when they identify an issue.
Because of these tendencies, they often have exceptional interpersonal skills and may often find themselves playing the role of mediator.
Despite their dislike of routine and organization, ESFPs can also be quite practical people who adapt well to any situation. This can make them fantastic team members capable of creating the most enjoyable environment possible for doing the task at hand.
They might like drama, but ESFPs are surprisingly good at making work life happen without causing muss or fuss.
They’re also very good with young children and animals, capable of forging special bonds with both. And it’s never surprising when an ESFP is a nature enthusiast considering how much they enjoy engaging with their senses.
Challenges Faced by ESFPs
As for the negative side of being an ESFP, people in this category do have a tendency to become overindulgent. They’re also prone to placing more value on instant feelings and fulfillment than on their duties and commitments if they’re not careful.
If ESFPs don’t develop their thinking sides by taking into account rational thought processing… they’re very likely to ignore potential consequences to their actions. In short, they’re not theorizers or long-term planners.
An ESFP under extreme stress, however, can fall into the traps of pessimism and envisioning additional misery. Negative possibilities in general are unsettling to them, as they’re optimists living in a world of possibilities.
When faced with average problems, you might find them responding with general, simplistic explanations. These oversimplified explanations might not fully capture the essence of the issue and can, in fact, make the situation even worse later on.
On the plus-side, this approach does help the ESFP overcome temporary negativity that would slow other personality types down.
One final negative to know is that the generally good-natured ESFP can hold a grudge if truly crossed. Once someone is on their bad side, they’re likely to stay there a very long time, if not forever.
Coaching and Development for ESFPs
The ESFP is a person with an enormous love of and for life, who knows how to have fun in even the dullest circumstances. When you have an ESFP in the room, you’ll likely have a lively environment.
They really do possess a unique ability to enjoy the world around them to its fullest. However, they must be cautious of the risks involved with living fully in the present. And their managers will need to be aware of this tendency as well.
Remember that theory makes ESFPs uneasy. If they haven’t fully embraced their intuitive side, they may shy away from complicated situations. The same goes for unclear instructions or anything requiring too much hypothesizing.
This is why an ESFP might struggle in classroom settings. They excel instead when they’re permitted to learn through social interaction or otherwise getting involved in the required task.
Hands-on experience is simply much more effective for them than studying a book. So if you want to see an ESFP succeed, give them every opportunity to interact with their environment directly.
ESFPs in the Workplace
With all these pros and cons, strengths and weaknesses making up their personality, ESFPs thrive in very particular professions. Think of positions that allow them to put their exceptional people skills to consistent use, along with their aptitude for organizing ideas into structured frameworks.
Their fast-paced nature and love of new experiences make them good candidates for jobs requiring a lot of diversity and people skills. This means potential ESFP career prospects include:
- Performing, acting, and artistry
- Sales
- Social work and counseling
- Childcare
- Fashion design
- Interior designing and advising
- Photography.
Mark A. Griffin | Blog
