What is Personality?

An individual's personality is the combination of traits and patterns that influence their
behavior, thought, motivation, and emotion. It drives individuals to consistently think, feel, and
behave in specific ways; in essence, it is what makes each individual unique. Over time, these
patterns strongly influence personal expectations, perceptions, values, and attitudes.
Let's first understand what personality is and why it is important for employers in the
recruitment process. Personality is the typical way in which a person responds to situations or a
person's preferred way of behaving in particular situations.
Personality does not change significantly over time. This is not to say that it never changes, but
rather that it is stable enough to be measured in a meaningful way. For employers, it is valuable
to know how you are likely to behave over the months and years you will be with their
organisation- not just on the day that you are tested.

Your personality affects your success in the role. For example, if you are comfortable
interacting with new people, you are likely to be more successful in sales and business
development roles than a person who tends to be relatively reserved and shy. Similarly, if you
tend to be methodical, systematic and to pay attention to details, you are likely to be more
suitable for engineering roles than a person who is expedient (pays less attention to structure
and details).Personality does not change significantly over time. This is not to say that it never
changes, but rather that it is stable enough to be measured in a meaningful way. For employers,
it is valuable to know how you are likely to behave over the months and years you will be with
their organisation- not just on the day that you are tested.

Personality Type Explained

According to Carl G. Jung's theory of psychological types [Jung, 1971], people can be characterized by their
preference of general attitude:

 Extraverted (E) vs. Introverted (I),

their preference of one of the two functions of perception:

 Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N),

and their preference of one of the two functions of judging:

 Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

The three areas of preferences introduced by Jung are dichotomies (i.e. bipolar dimensions where each pole
represents a different preference). Jung also proposed that in a person one of the four functions above is
dominant – either a function of perception or a function of judging. Isabel Briggs Myers, a researcher and
practitioner of Jung’s theory, proposed to see the judging-perceiving relationship as a fourth dichotomy
influencing personality type [Briggs Myers, 1980]:
  Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

The first criterion, Extraversion – Introversion, signifies the source and direction of a person’s energy
expression. An extravert’s source and direction of energy expression is mainly in the external world, while an
introvert has a source of energy mainly in their own internal world.

The second criterion, Sensing – Intuition, represents the method by which someone perceives information.
Sensing means that a person mainly believes information he or she receives directly from the external world.
Intuition means that a person believes mainly information he or she receives from the internal or imaginative
world.

The third criterion, Thinking – Feeling, represents how a person processes information. Thinking means that a
person makes a decision mainly through logic. Feeling means that, as a rule, he or she makes a decision based
on emotion, i.e. based on what they feel they should do.

The fourth criterion, Judging – Perceiving, reflects how a person implements the information he or she has
processed. Judging means that a person organizes all of his life events and, as a rule, sticks to his plans.
Perceiving means that he or she is inclined to improvise and explore alternative options.

All possible permutations of preferences in the 4 dichotomies above yield 16 different combinations, or
personality types, representing which of the two poles in each of the four dichotomies dominates in a person,
thus defining 16 different personality types. Each personality type can be assigned a 4 letter acronym of
corresponding combination of preferences:

Types of Personality – 16 types

1. INFP - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Perception (P)
2. ISTP - Introversion (I), Sensing (S), Thinking (T), Perception (P)
3. ISFP - Introversion (I), Sensing (S), Feeling (F), Perception (P)
4. ISTJ - Introversion (I), Sensing (S), Thinking (T), Judgment (J)
5. ISFJ - Introversion (I), Sensing (S), Feeling (F), Judgment (J)
6. ESTP - Extraversion (E), Sensing (S), Thinking (T), Perception (P)
7. ESFP - Extraversion (E) ,Sensing (S), Feeling (F), Perception (P)
8. ESTJ - Extraversion (E), Sensing (S), Thinking (T), Judgment (J)
9. ESFJ - Extraversion (E), Sensing (S), Feeling (F), Judgment (J)
10.INTP - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Thinking (T), Perception (P
11.INTJ - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Thinking (T), Judgment (J)
12.INFJ - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Judgment (J)
13.ENTP - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Thinking (T), Perception (P)
14.ENFP - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Perception (P)
15.ENTJ - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Thinking (T), Judgment (J)

1. INFP - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Perception (P)

INFPs are imaginative idealists, guided by their own core values and beliefs. To a Healer,
possibilities are paramount; the realism of the moment is only of passing concern. They see
potential for a better future, and pursue truth and meaning with their own individual flair.
INFPs are sensitive, caring, and compassionate, and are deeply concerned with the personal
growth of themselves and others. Individualistic and nonjudgmental, INFPs believe that each
person must find their own path. They enjoy spending time exploring their own ideas and
values, and are gently encouraging to others to do the same. INFPs are creative and often
artistic; they enjoy finding new outlets for self-expression.

What Makes the INFP Tick

INFPs value authenticity and want to be original and individual in what they do. They are often
concerned with a search for meaning and truth within themselves. Following tradition holds
little appeal for the INFP; they prefer to do their own exploration of values and ideas, and
decide for themselves what seems right. INFPs are often offbeat and unconventional, but they
feel no desire to conform. The INFP would rather be true to themselves than try to fit in with
the crowd.
INFPs are accepting and nonjudgmental in their treatment of others, believing that each person
must follow their own path. They are flexible and accommodating, and can often see many
points of view. It is important to the INFP to support other people; however, the INFP may
react strongly if they feel their own values are being violated. They especially hate being
steamrolled by people who insist there is one right way to do things. INFPs want an open,
supportive exchange of ideas.

Recognizing the INFP

INFPs may initially seem cool, as they reserve their most authentic thoughts and feelings for
people they know well. They are reflective and often spiritual, and often interested in having
meaningful conversations about values, ethics, people, and personal growth. Typically curious
and open-minded, the Healer continually seeks a deeper understanding of themselves and of the
people around them. They are passionate about their ideals, but private as well; few people
understand the depth of the INFP’s commitment to their beliefs.
INFPs are sensitive and empathetic, and engage themselves in a lifelong quest for meaning and
authenticity. The mundane aspects of life are of less interest to this type, and they are more
excited by interesting ideas than by practical facts. They typically accept others without
question, and may take special interest in offbeat points of view or alternative lifestyles. They
often have a special affection for the arts, especially the avant garde, as they love experiencing
new concepts in self-expression.

Famous INFPs
Famous INFPs include Princess Diana, Audrey Hepburn, Fred Rogers, John Lennon, Kurt
Cobain, Tori Amos, Morrissey, Chloe Sevigny, William Shakespeare, Bill Watterson, A.A.
Milne, Helen Keller, Carl Rogers, and Isabel Briggs Myers (creator of the Myers-Briggs Type
Indicator).

INFP at Work
At work, the INFP is not particularly driven by money or status, preferring work that aligns
with their personal values and allows them to help others. INFPs are typically motivated by
vision and inspiration, and want to engage with projects and causes that feel important to them.
INFPs enjoy the process of creative problem-solving, and want to understand complex issues.
They appreciate innovation, and want to come up with original ideas to improve circumstances
for people. An ideal job for a Healer allows them to express their individuality in the way they
work, and takes advantage of their ability to see unique solutions.
INFPs enjoy working autonomously and having control over how and when to complete a
project. They often enjoy participating in teams, although they want to be free to put their own
personal stamp on their work. When they do work with other people, it's important to the INFP
that they be cooperative, supportive, and flexible, and that they have similar passion for their
ideals.
INFP in the Population
INFP is the ninth most common type in the population. They make up:
4% of the general population
5% of women
4% of men

Popular Hobbies for the INFP

Popular hobbies for INFPs include poetry, creative writing, music, photography, theater, and
visual art.
Quotes About INFP
"INFPs excel in fields that deal with possibilities for people."
- Isabel Briggs Myers, Gifts Differing
"Healers care deeply—passionately—about a few special persons or a favorite cause, and their
fervent aim is to bring peace to the world and wholeness to themselves and their loved ones."
- David Keirsey, Please Understand Me II
"Clearly INFPs are best when whatever they're doing serves their personal values."
- Otto Kroeger, Type Talk at Work
Facts About INFP
Interesting facts about the INFP:
 On personality trait measures, score as Artistic, Reflective, Careless, Sensitive, Flexible,
and Appreciative
 Among least likely of all types to suffer heart disease
 In men, among least likely to report chronic pain
 Second highest of all types to report marital dissatisfaction
 Among most likely to have suicidal thoughts in college
 Tend to be more successful than the average in learning a foreign language
 Among types most likely to be dissatisfied with their work
 Personal values include Autonomy and Creativity
Overrepresented in occupations in counseling, writing, and the arts

2. INFJ - Introversion (I), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Judgment (J)

INFJs are creative nurturers with a strong sense of personal integrity and a drive to help others
realize their potential. Creative and dedicated, they have a talent for helping others with original
solutions to their personal challenges.

The Counselor has a unique ability to intuit others' emotions and motivations, and will often
know how someone else is feeling before that person knows it himself. They trust their insights
about others and have strong faith in their ability to read people. Although they are sensitive,
they are also reserved; the INFJ is a private sort, and is selective about sharing intimate
thoughts and feelings.

What Makes the INFJ Tick

INFJs are guided by a deeply considered set of personal values. They are intensely idealistic,
and can clearly imagine a happier and more perfect future. They can become discouraged by the
harsh realities of the present, but they are typically motivated and persistent in taking positive
action nonetheless. The INFJ feels an intrinsic drive to do what they can to make the world a
better place.

INFJs want a meaningful life and deep connections with other people. They do not tend to share
themselves freely but appreciate emotional intimacy with a select, committed few. Although
their rich inner life can sometimes make them seem mysterious or private to others, they
profoundly value authentic connections with people they trust.

Recognizing the INFJ

INFJs often appear quiet, caring and sensitive, and may be found listening attentively to
someone else’s ideas or concerns. They are highly perceptive about people and want to help
others achieve understanding. INFJs are not afraid of complex personal problems; in fact, they
are quite complex themselves, and have a rich inner life that few are privy to. They reflect at
length on issues of ethics, and feel things deeply. Because Counselors initially appear so gentle
and reserved, they may surprise others with their intensity when one of their values is
threatened or called into question. Their calm exterior belies the complexity of their inner
worlds.

Because INFJs are such complex people, they may be reluctant to engage with others who
might not understand or appreciate them, and can thus be hard to get to know. Although they
want to get along with others and support them in their goals, they are fiercely loyal to their
own system of values and will not follow others down a path that does not feel authentic to
them. When they sense that their values are not being respected, or when their intuition tells
them that someone’s intentions are not pure, they are likely to withdraw.

Famous INFJs
Famous INFJs include Mohandas Gandhi, Eleanor Roosevelt, Emily Bronte, Carl Jung, Fyodor
Dostoevsky, Florence Nightingale, Shirley MacLaine, Jimmy Carter, and Edward Snowden.

INFJ in the Population

INFJ is the rarest type in the population. It is the least common type among men, and the third
least common among women (after INTJ and ENTJ). INFJs make up:
2% of the general population
2% of women
1% of men

Popular Hobbies for the INFJ

Popular hobbies for the INFJ include writing, art appreciation, cultural events, reading,
socializing in small, intimate settings, and playing or listening to music.
Quotes About INFJ
"The visions of the INFJs tend to concern human welfare, and their contributions are likely to
be made independent of a mass movement."
- Isabel Briggs Myers, Gifts Differing
"These seclusive and friendly people are complicated themselves, and so can understand and
deal with complex ethical issues and with deeply troubled individuals."
- David Keirsey, Please Understand Me II
"INFJs' nonstop search for learning, self-growth, and development—and wishing the same for
everyone else—makes them very reassuring to others and people worth emulating."
- Otto Kroeger, Type Talk at Work

INFJ at Work
At work, the INFJ is focused on the task of bettering the human condition. INFJs are dedicated,
helpful, and principled workers who can be relied on to envision, plan, and carry out complex
projects for humanitarian causes.

Although they are typically driven by lofty ideals, Counselors gain the most satisfaction from
their work when they can turn their ideas into reality, creating constructive change for other
people.

INFJs are typically organized and prefer work that allows them to complete projects in an
orderly manner. They are often independent and tend to prefer a quiet environment that allows
them the opportunity to fully develop their own thoughts and ideas.

The ideal work environment for an INFJ is harmonious, industrious, and oriented to a
humanitarian mission, with co-workers who are similarly committed to positive change. The
ideal job for a Counselor allows them to use their creativity in an independent, organized
environment to develop and implement a vision that is consistent with their personal values.
Facts About INFJ
Interesting facts about the INFJ:
Least common type in the population
On personality trait scales, scored as Sincere, Sympathetic, Unassuming, Submissive,
Easygoing, Reserved and Patient
Among highest of all types in college GPA
Among most likely to stay in college
Most likely of all types to cope with stress by seeing a therapist
Highest of all types in marital dissatisfaction
Personal values include Spirituality, Learning, and Community Service
Commonly found in careers in religion, counseling, teaching, and the arts

3. ENFP - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Perception (P)

ENFPs are people-centered creators with a focus on possibilities and a contagious enthusiasm
for new ideas, people and activities. Energetic, warm, and passionate, ENFPs love to help other
people explore their creative potential.
ENFPs are typically agile and expressive communicators, using their wit, humor, and mastery
of language to create engaging stories. Imaginative and original, ENFPs often have a strong
artistic side. They are drawn to art because of its ability to express inventive ideas and create a
deeper understanding of human experience.

What Makes the ENFP Tick

ENFPs tend to be curious about others and preoccupied with discovering the deeper meaning in
people and ideas. They want authentic experience and often seek emotional intensity. ENFPs
are easily bored by details and repetition and seek out situations that offer an escape from the
mundane. Novelty is attractive to ENFPs, who often have a wide range of interests and friends
from many backgrounds.
ENFPs prize individuality and often consider the pursuit of happiness to be the highest priority
in life, both for themselves and for others. They place great importance on personal freedom
and self-expression, and want to be able to go wherever inspiration leads.

Recognizing the ENFP

ENFPs love to talk about people: not just the facts, but what motivates them, what inspires
them, and what they envision achieving in life. They’ll often share their own aspirations freely,
and want to hear others’ in return. The ENFP is unlikely to judge anyone’s dream, and will
discuss the most imaginative and outlandish of fantasies with warm, enthusiastic intensity. They
love to explore creative possibilities, and nothing deflates them faster than talking about dry
facts or harsh reality.

ENFPs often seem unconventional, and may come off as scattered; they don’t tend to be in
touch with their physical surroundings. They often overlook the details, as they are more likely
to focus on connecting with other people or on exploring their own imagination and self-
expression. They have little patience for the mundane and want to experience life with intensity
and flair. ENFPs often have an artistic streak, and may be artistic in appearance. Many have
developed a distinctive and quirky personal style.

amous ENFPs
Famous ENFPs include Bill Clinton, Phil Donahue, Mark Twain, Edith Wharton, Will Rogers,
Carol Burnett, Dr. Seuss, Robin Williams, Drew Barrymore, Julie Andrews, Alicia Silverstone,
Joan Baez, and Regis Philbin.
ENFP in the Population
ENFP is a moderately common personality type, and is the fifth most common among women.
ENFPs make up:
8% of the general population
10% of women
6% of men
Popular Hobbies for the ENFP
Popular hobbies for the ENFP include writing, creating and appreciating art, playing musical
instruments, listening to music, participating in community theater, and reading fiction.

Quotes About ENFP

"They may be inspiring teachers, scientists, artists, advertising or salespeople, or almost
anything they want to be."
- Isabel Briggs Myers, Gifts Differing
"Their enthusiasm is boundless and is often contagious, making them the most vivacious of all
the types, and also inspiring others to join their cause."
- David Keirsey, Please Understand Me II
"ENFPs' ability to empower others is one of their most impressive contributions to the
workplace."
- Otto Kroeger, Type Talk at Work

Facts About ENFP

Interesting facts about the ENFP:
On personality trait scales, scored as Enthusiastic, Outgoing, Spontaneous, Changeable,
Impulsive, Energetic, and Understanding
Scored among highest of all types in available resources for coping with stress
ENFP women are less likely to suffer from heart disease >> Tweet this
ENFP men are less likely to suffer from chronic pain >> Tweet this
Rated by psychologists as among most likely of all types to have trouble in school
Overrepresented among academically talented elementary school students
Personal values include Home & family, Friendships, Creativity, Learning, and Community
Service
Commonly found in careers in counseling, teaching, religion, and the arts
4. ENFJ - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Feeling (F), Judgment (J)
ENFJs are idealist organizers, driven to implement their vision of what is best for humanity.
They often act as catalysts for human growth because of their ability to see potential in other
people and their charisma in persuading others to their ideas. They are focused on values and
vision, and are passionate about the possibilities for people.
ENFJs are typically energetic and driven, and often have a lot on their plates. They are tuned
into the needs of others and acutely aware of human suffering; however, they also tend to be
optimistic and forward-thinking, intuitively seeing opportunity for improvement. The ENFJ is
ambitious, but their ambition is not self-serving: rather, they feel personally responsible for
making the world a better place.

What Makes the ENFJ Tick

ENFJs are driven by a deep sense of altruism and empathy for other people. They have an
intuitive sense of the emotions of others, and often act as an emotional barometer for the people
around them. However, their compassion not reserved for the people close to them: they are
often humanitarian in nature, and may feel genuine concern for the ills of the entire human race.
They tend to personally experience the feelings of others, and feel compelled to act when they
see people suffering.
ENFJs want close, supportive connections with others, and believe that cooperation is the best
way to get things done. They like to be liked and are very sensitive to feedback, both positive
and negative. They expect the best not just from themselves, but from others as well, and may
find themselves disappointed when others are not as genuine in their intentions as the ENFJ.
ENFJs work hard to maintain strong relationships, and strive to be valuable members of their
families, groups, and communities.
5. ENTJ - Extraversion (E), Intuition (N), Thinking (T), Judgment (J)
ENTJs are strategic leaders, motivated to organize change. They are quick to see inefficiency
and conceptualize new solutions, and enjoy developing long-range plans to accomplish their
vision. They excel at logical reasoning and are usually articulate and quick-witted.
ENTJs are analytical and objective, and like bringing order to the world around them. When
there are flaws in a system, the ENTJ sees them, and enjoys the process of discovering and
implementing a better way. ENTJs are assertive and enjoy taking charge; they see their role as
that of leader and manager, organizing people and processes to achieve their goals.

What Makes the ENTJ Tick

ENTJs are often very motivated by success in their careers and enjoy hard work. They are
ambitious and interested in gaining power and influence. To the ENTJ, decision-making is a
vocation. They want to be in a position to make the call and put plans into motion.
ENTJs tend to be blunt and decisive. Driven to get things done, they can sometimes be critical
or brusque in the pursuit of a goal. They are typically friendly and outgoing, although they may
not pick up on emotional subleties in other people. They often love working with others toward
a common goal, but may not find time to attend to their feelings. They are focused on results
and want to be productive, competent, and influential.

Recognizing the ENTJ

ENTJs are natural leaders, and often take charge no matter where they are. They typically have
a clear vision for the future, and intuitively understand how to move people and processes
towards that goal. They tend to approach every situation with the attitude of an efficiency
analyst, and are not shy about pointing out what could be done better. For the ENTJ, their ideas
are a foregone conclusion: it’s just a matter of time before they can move the players to get
everything accomplished.
ENTJs are often gregarious, and seem to have an idea for how a person will fit into their grand
scheme from the moment they are introduced. They are typically direct and may seem
presumptuous or even arrogant; they size people and situations up very quickly, and have
trouble being anything but honest about what they see. ENTJs are sensitive to issues of power,
and seek positions and people of influence. They are characeristically ambitious, and often very
engaged in their careers. More than any other type, ENTJs enjoy their work, and may even say
that working is what they do for fun.