An In-Depth Look: ESFP This week, let’s take a deeper dive into what we commonly refer to the “Party Type”: ESFP! Characteristics of ESFP At 8.5% of the population, ESPF types are exuberant lovers of life. They exist to be in the present moment, and tend to find enjoyment in all things tangible: people, food, clothes, animals, nature and various activities. As individuals who are not so much into rules and sanctions, they tend to reject structure and will generally find ways to avoid routine. For this reason, they work best when they can ‘go with the flow’, and their work provides them with variety and the opportunity to see the tangible outcomes of their creative efforts. When it comes to working with others, ESFPs thrive on meeting human needs in creative and emergent ways. These types are all about accomplishing tasks with maximum fun and minimum hassle; combined with their genuine interest in people, they can often make the ultimate team players. Important ESFP Contributions Due to their ability for – and propensity to – learn from experience, ESFPs plunge into things and are likely to be observant, practical, realistic and active. They are great at interpersonal interactions and often play the role of peacemaker, due to their internal Feeling judgement and ability to empathize and identify with others. For this reason, ESFPs also tend to be generous, optimistic and tactful in the workplace. With their combination of exuberance and an ability to embrace the moment, ESFPs have a knack for dealing effectively with pressing and immediate need. When stress builds, these types are often regarded as the ‘easy going’ ones who can calm the waters and produce effective outcomes despite external challenges. Resourceful and supportive, ESFPs definitely inject energy into any team they are found on. Some Blind Spots While ESFPs are incredibly agile and energetic, they may overlook the long-term considerations in favour of a focus on immediate – and often reactionary – behaviours. Moreover, because of their desire for a tangible and realistic understanding of things, ESFPs may avoid what they view as complex or ambiguous situations and people, forgoing important opportunities for learning or innovation. Finally, living by the “Carpe Diem” mantra means that ESFPs – when left to their own devices – may be tempted to put enjoyment ahead of obligations.
