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    Oct 04, 2022    |   Psychometrics

The Tricks n’ Treats of Temperament

 

5 minute read

Written by Psychometrics Canada

Man-hunching-down-scared-of-monster-shadow One useful approach for exploring personality type is through the Temperament lens because it closely relates to what we value most, how satisfied we are, or how stressed we become. If our needs – or motivators – are being met, satisfaction abounds. By the same token, anxiety and tension arises from a non-fulfillment of these same needs.

Being aware of our temperament can help recognize – and optimize – what brings us well-being both personally and professionally while also working to minimize potential stress. Moreover, by being more aware of your colleagues’ temperaments, perhaps you can better understand how to accommodate their needs as well. Give yourselves and others more of the treats, and less of the tricks of temperament. Your team will be all the more cohesive (and much less stressed) as a result. Try to keep the following in mind:

Temperament Types

Theorists

NT’s (INTJ, ENTJ, INTP, ENTP)
Theorists are often described as versatile, inventive, and rational thinkers. The combination of NT preferences generally gives rise to a curious, conceptual and knowledge-seeking disposition and these individuals may seek out activities that provide opportunity for designing, analyzing, philosophical hypothesizing and critical thinking.
Treats/Values: Mastery, self-control, autonomy, knowledge and competence.
Tricks/Stressors: Powerlessness, incompetence, poor quality, lack of knowledge.
Type Tip: When working with NT’s, make sure you give them the appropriate amount of independence and control over their own work. Additionally, giving them the proper resources via information and highly-skilled teammates will help minimize their stress and optimize the creative output you stand to receive from these gifted and innovative individuals.

Improvisers 

SP’s (ISTP, ISFP, ESTP, ISTP)
Our action-oriented Improvisers are described as opportunistic, spontaneous and impulsive while also being able to act on what is realistic and has the potential for very practical impact. Others will often see their SP counterparts as daring or courageous, open minded and skillful in the art of first-response especially in high tension or crisis filled situations due to their ability to adapt to present realities.
Treats/Values: Freedom to act and act quickly, excitement, responding to needs of the moment, making an impact, practical applications.
Tricks/Stressors: Boredom, routine, lack of control, loss of contribution or impact.
Type Tip: When working with Improvisers, remember to always link ideas and vision to practical applications. Give them opportunities to work autonomously to contribute in a realistic and noticeable way. Their favourite kind of projects are those where they can immediately witness the results of their efforts. As a leader or teammate, remember that they appreciate freedom so be careful not to over manage their work activities.

Catalysts

NF’s (INFJ, ENFJ, INFP, ENFP)
People with NF preferences are often seen the harmonizers and energizers in a team. They are usually described as authentic and compassionate individuals with an inspirational approach to communication and a loyal disposition towards those on a team or in their interpersonal circles. For these reasons, they have a knack for getting people together and catalyzing group efforts in cooperative fashion.
Treats/Values: Meaning and significance, personal identity, purpose and the opportunity to develop and hone potential.
Tricks/Stressors: Insincerity, betrayal, lack of integrity, rejection and conflict in general.
Type Tip: In your communication with NFs remember to highlight the purpose and meaning behind a change, project or task. Frame the situation as being pertinent to growth and development – this is speaking the NF language! Additionally, try to develop a connection with your Catalyst counterparts – they are great people to have in your corner. Also remember to authentically validate their efforts – doing so will keep their engagement high and those creative insights coming!

Guardians

SJ’s (ISTJ, ESTJ, ISFJ, ESFJ)
Guardians are considered responsible and dependable contributors with a loyal and cooperative attitude towards others, believing in the adage “Many hands make light work”. They value what is practical, and they enjoy being organized and orderly in their approach to work. They are often looked to as the pillars of structure within a team, who use organization to support the efforts of those around them to execute goals – especially ones that have been carefully thought out.
Treats/Values: Membership, belonging, responsibility, duty, contribution and structure.
Tricks/Stressors: A sense of not belonging, insubordination, lack of security or uncertainty, unpredictability.
Type Tip: When working with SJs, make sure you gain consensus around procedures or structures that are sacred and should always be kept in mind. This will give them a sense of stability and structure while more flexible counterparts can enjoy spontaneity around other initiatives. As cooperation and support is important for SJs (regardless of their T or F preference), strive to maintain an atmosphere of collaboration. Leaders, providing some consistency and clarity in role expectations as well as feedback around those expectations will go a long way in getting the best out of your Guardian team members.

The more we continue to apply the value of type to understanding, accommodating and embracing the needs of those we work with, the more productive and engaged our teams can continue to be. If you’re ready to take the next step contact us today to learn more about how the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator can elevate your team.

References:
Kiersey,D. and Bates, M. (1995). Please Understand Me. Del Mar, CA: Prometheus Nemesis Book Company.


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Filed under: Type Talk

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