An In-Depth Look: ENTJ This is a type distribution table that reflects type distribution in a US representative sample, and contrasts it to the distribution of each type in a sample of executive-level CEO’s and management . As you may notice, ENTJs only comprise a mere 1.8% of the public populace, however, make up a whopping 12% of those we classify as executives. For those of you who are fascinated by career Self-Selection, this is a whopping 11:1 ratio! Now, let me clarify by saying that any type CAN do any job, and do it well, but because of what we tend to find naturally attractive, the role of CEO-level management tends to attract preferences based on natural fit. And for ENTJs, this role definitely seems to align with some of their more natural tendencies. Given the predominance of ENTJ in executive populations, in combination with the rising demand for leadership coaching, I thought I would dedicate this week’s blog post to understanding these ENTJ executives. Characteristics of ENTJ ENTJs have a knack for being decisive, analytical and logical decision makers. They value intelligence and competence and because of their aversion to anything inefficient and ignorant, they are natural critics who strive for optimizing and refining important deliverables. They tend to be intellectually curious and are keen on seeking out new ideas for the purpose of innovation and strategic planning. Due to their keen awareness of organizational connections and strategy, they think ahead and can often anticipate problems, develop long-term plans, and direct human activity to maximally achieve goals. Important ENTJ Contributions ENTJ’s are often hailed as natural leaders and organization builders. They are great at translating possibilities into plans that achieve both long-term and short-term goals. They have a knack for pointing out what may be illogical or inefficient in attempts to refine and ultimately optimize any outcome they focus on. They are the strategic visionaries, proficient planners for people and organizations alike. Some Blind Spots Because of the value they place on competence and task outcomes, ENTJs sometimes fail to notice or value the need for personal connection, appreciation, praise or support. They may also overlook the needs of others to process decisions before moving full-steam ahead. Finally, because of their big picture thinking, the specifics and realistic factors necessary to implement their long-term decisions may trip them up due to lack of consideration. The above poster is taken from a workshop in which I ask participants of a particular type to list contributions, blind spots, needs, and annoyances. So many of these definitely seem to reflect what I call the ENTJ-Way! So what about you, our valued readers? Do these characteristics align with your personal experience of those ENTJ executives? We’d love to hear from you!
