Personality tests - a sham or a helpful tool for self-discovery?
I've often found myself questioning the validity and usefulness of these assessments. After all, do I really need a test to tell me who I am? I'm painfully aware of my own strengths, weaknesses, and quirks, spending countless hours analyzing my thoughts, behaviors, and interactions. My test results often match my self-perception, humorously confirming how well I know myself.
Yet, despite my skepticism, I've found them useful in understanding myself and others better. But have you ever wondered what your company actually does with the results of your personality test? Do they provide meaningful guidance and support to help you grow, or do they use the results to pigeonhole you into specific roles? Are these tests creating a more inclusive and understanding work environment, or are they fostering divisions and stereotypes among employees? And ultimately, are personality tests in the workplace a genuine tool for personal and professional development, or just a corporate ritual that fails to deliver on its promises?
Despite my reservations, I also had to take the test and discovered that I'm an INTP, the "Logician" of the personality types. As it turns out, if you're an INTP too, we're in good company – a quick Google search reveals that famous INTPs include brilliant minds like Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, and Abraham Lincoln, as well as iconic fictional characters such as Gandalf, Yoda, and Sherlock Holmes (though some argue he's an INTJ). In the world of entertainment, we've got the likes of Tina Fey, Christopher Walken, and Louis Theroux.
While the reliability of these listings is up for debate, they give us a general idea of what an INTP might look like.
The high-level description for an INTP seems spot-on for me but delving deeper into my results reveal complexities beyond the label's simplicity. This, of course, is expected as we acknowledge the intricacies that make each of us truly unique.
In this piece, I share my personal experiences and reflections as an INTP (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Perceiving) personality type, focusing on how these traits have influenced my approach to leadership and problem-solving in the workplace.
While my insights may be most relevant to fellow INTPs or those who work closely with this personality type, the broader themes of self-awareness, authenticity, and adaptability are applicable to anyone seeking personal and professional growth.
My goal is to provide a relatable perspective on the INTP experience, inviting all personality types to reflect on their own unique strengths and challenges, whether you're an INTP navigating the complexities of leadership or simply curious.
Introversion
INTPs are somewhat quiet and reserved. However, when a topic is of great interest to them, they have many theories and insights to offer and share with others. Adaptable to changing circ*mstances, INTPs prefer the challenge of finding a solution to the challenge of implementing a solution.
As introverts, we navigate social settings with a blend of ease and reserve. We can be the life of the party (well, our version of it anyway) in familiar situations, effortlessly striking up conversations. But put us in a large gathering filled with strangers, and we'll probably be the ones in the corner, mentally redesigning the room's layout to ensure our optimal exit strategy.
Our quiet time, mine accompanied with music, fuels our productivity and creativity, and we can spend hours in our bubble exploring and coming up with creative solutions to problems.
I block off time on my calendar specifically for deep work because I believe it is essential for my productivity and well-being. I also have a(n) (almost) non-negotiable “no meeting Fridays” where I discourage meetings and decline any invites that I believe can wait until Monday.
As the result of our tendency to direct energy inwards, we may tend to seem guarded, keeping personal thoughts and feelings to ourselves which maybe often leads people to perceive us as hard to get to know. But the thing is, once trust is established, we’re open and loyal.
Our social circle is small but profound, cherishing deep connections over superficial interactions. Reunions with old friends feel timeless, demonstrating the enduring nature of our bonds.
And while we enjoy solitude, we appreciate the magic of collaboration. Brainstorming with a group of like-minded individuals is like adding rocket fuel to our creative engine. The key is finding that sweet spot between quiet contemplation and lively discussion.
I, personally, especially enjoy those sessions when PMs or designers whip out their Figma boards or post-it notes and we start throwing ideas around!
While tradition has its place, we believe in questioning the status quo to foster growth and progress.
Nothing grinds my gears more than when someone tells me, "This is how we've always done it." 🤯😡🥴
There are times when tried-and-true methods are effective and reliable. But when "how we've always done it" becomes a default response to new ideas or suggestions, it can stifle growth and limit potential.
While our introversion can be a strength in many ways, it's important to recognize the potential challenges it may present in leadership roles.
Some may argue that introverted leaders may be perceived as less charismatic or engaging than their extroverted counterparts. However, I believe that by leveraging our unique strengths, such as our ability to listen deeply, think critically, and foster meaningful one-on-one connections, introverted leaders can be just as effective as extroverted ones.
The key is to find a leadership style that feels authentic and to build/find a team that values and complements our strengths.
Intuition - Unconventional and Innovative
They want to follow their ideas and find the theories behind them. People can count on them to identify the core of the situation and offer ideas to help others understand the situation logically.
We’re drawn to anything unconventional and innovative. We love exploring new ideas and possibilities.
For me, it's not just about finding practical uses for things; I genuinely enjoy diving deep into topics, purely out of curiosity. I can spend hours lost in thought, dissecting ideas and trying to find patterns that others might overlook. And maybe that's why I've stuck around in the fraud and disputes realm for over a decade—because the work endlessly satisfies that curious side of me.
Routine and repetition don't really appeal to us.
For me, this rings so true finding myself often advocating for new and better ways to do things at work.
But it's not all about floating in the clouds of imagination. We also get a kick out of seeing our ideas actually work in real life.
I'm in my element when it comes to planning and strategy because I get to play with different possibilities and solutions.
Sure, we understand not everyone shares our enthusiasm for the abstract or the unconventional. Some folks prefer to stick to what they know works, and that's totally fine. And it’s also important to recognize that our unconventional and innovative approach may sometimes be met with resistance or skepticism.
Some may argue that our tendency to question the status quo or explore unconventional ideas can be disruptive or impractical. Others may feel that our abstract thinking and love of theory can lead to a lack of concrete, actionable solutions.
However, I believe that by balancing our innovative thinking with a willingness to communicate our ideas effectively and collaborate with others to bring them to fruition, INTPs can overcome these potential challenges.
We must recognize that while unconventional thinking is a strength, it is most effective when combined with practical application and effective communication.
Thinking - The Logical Mind
INTPs typically are logical, analytical, and objectively critical. They like to find the principles underlying interesting ideas and to develop additional principles. They organize ideas and knowledge rather than situations or people. They are curious and can become so absorbed in what they are doing that they lose track of time.
They consider opposing points of view in an objective, dispassionate manner, applying logic to sort through those views.
We gravitate towards abstract thinking and conceptual problem-solving. Instead of merely addressing surface-level problems, we tend to delve into underlying patterns and principles.
I truly believe that by understanding the foundational principles at play, innovative solutions can be developed that drive meaningful change.
Our decision-making approach, on the other hand is firmly rooted in logic and reason. We carefully analyze, using hard data and a clear understanding of cause and effect. When confronted with a problem, we break it down into its component parts, evaluating each with a critical eye and weighing the pros and cons of various solutions.
We prefer to approach situations as an impartial observer, viewing them objectively and analytically. Though our logical nature may come across as harsh or unemotional, we believe constructive criticism is vital for growth and improvement.
So yes - while I may not be the first to volunteer to organize social events, I bring something different to the table. A thoughtful, analytical approach to decision-making and problem-solving. I'm unafraid to question established ideas and beliefs, often spotting patterns and connections that others miss.
And the truth is, I think this is necessary in my field of work and has served me well investigating fraud and winning disputes, where my analytical skills have been invaluable.
It's important to acknowledge that our strong preference for logical, objective decision-making may have its drawbacks. Some may argue that an overemphasis on logic can lead to a lack of empathy or consideration for the emotional impact of decisions.
However, I believe that by balancing our logical approach with an openness to alternative perspectives and a willingness to consider the human element, INTPs can mitigate these potential pitfalls. We must recognize that while logic is a powerful tool, it is not the only factor in effective decision-making and problem-solving.
Perceiving - The Flexible Approach
INTPs are likely to be most satisfied in a work environment that values logic and allows them to work with autonomy.
Our approach to organization and planning is a balancing act. We appreciate having a general plan in place, but we don't like to get bogged down in too many details. We find that a little structure goes a long way, providing a comfortable framework while still allowing for flexibility and spontaneity.
Maybe this explains why I don’t hesitate acknowledging when something is no longer working for me and move on to Plan B - even when knowing that Plan B isn’t as solid as Plan A. The willingness to move on to Plan B despite its imperfections reflects a pragmatic and flexible mindset in problem-solving and decision-making.
When it comes to managing time pressures, we often find ourselves motivated by the energy of an approaching deadline. We may struggle to get started on a task too far in advance, but as the due date draws near, we kick into high gear. We do our best work when there's a moderate amount of pressure – enough to keep us focused, but not so much that we feel overwhelmed. And while we may have a few plans swirling around in our head, we don't always feel the need to put them down on paper right away.
In terms of schedules and routines, we welcome a bit of predictability in our life, when it comes to either work or personal life. Having a regular schedule can help us stay on track and be more productive. But we also value our freedom and don't want to feel too confined by a rigid routine. We like having the flexibility to respond to opportunities as they arise, even if it means deviating from the plan. And when it comes to tackling large projects, we often prefer to dive right in and figure things out as we go, trusting that a solution will emerge through the process of exploration and experimentation.
It's worth noting that our tendency to be flexible and adaptable may sometimes be viewed as a lack of commitment or decisiveness. Some may argue that our openness to changing plans or considering multiple options can lead to indecision or a lack of clear direction.
However, I believe that by balancing our flexibility with a clear sense of purpose and a willingness to commit to a course of action when necessary, INTPs can mitigate these potential drawbacks. We must recognize that while adaptability is a strength, there are times when decisiveness and follow-through are equally important.
My Takeaways
As an INTP leading teams, I've learned to leverage my unique strengths while adapting to my team's needs. While I naturally lean towards independent work and deep analysis, I've developed the ability to communicate my ideas effectively and continue to improve in building strong, authentic relationships with my team members.
I recognize that there are areas where I can continue to grow and improve. Emotional expression, particularly in a leadership context, can be challenging for me as an introvert. Navigating the social demands of leadership, such as networking events and small talk, can be draining, and I've learned to set boundaries and prioritize meaningful interactions to maintain my well-being and effectiveness.
As someone who has grown up with a different cultural background and native language, I've also faced challenges in translating and expressing emotions in a way that aligns with Western norms. In my native Tagalog, for example, certain emotional expressions may not have exact equivalents in English, leading to potential miscommunication when attempting to convey my feelings.
Additionally, my cultural upbringing has instilled in me a more reserved approach to emotional expression, which may be perceived differently in Western contexts where leaders are often expected to be more openly expressive.
Despite these challenges, I believe that my INTP traits are valuable leadership traits. By leveraging my strengths in critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, I contribute unique perspectives and drive innovation. Simultaneously, I remain committed to personal growth, continuing to develop the skills needed to connect with and inspire others.
Being an INTP leader is not about fitting a predetermined mold. By combining my natural strengths with a willingness to learn and grow, I am able to lead authentically and effectively.
Embracing Authenticity and Recognizing Quiet Power
Ultimately, being an INTP is about embracing our unique strengths while also pushing ourselves to grow and adapt. It's about finding a leadership style that feels authentic to us, even if it looks different from the extroverted ideal. And it's about recognizing the quiet power that comes with deep thinking, logical analysis, and a passion for ideas.
To my fellow INTPs, I encourage you to:
💡 Leverage your analytical skills: Use your ability to break down complex problems and identify underlying patterns to drive strategic decision-making and innovation in your team or organization.
🗣️ Communicate your vision: While you may prefer to keep your ideas to yourself, sharing your unique insights and perspectives with your team can inspire and motivate them. Practice articulating your vision clearly and persuasively.
🫱🏼🫲🏻 Build strong relationships: Focus on cultivating deep, meaningful connections with your team members and stakeholders. Schedule one-on-one time to understand their needs, concerns, and ideas, and show them that you value their contributions.
🙇🏽♀️ Create space for deep work: Protect your time and energy for focused, uninterrupted work on complex problems. Encourage your team to do the same by setting clear boundaries around meeting times and communication expectations.
📚 Embrace continuous learning: Stay curious and open to new ideas, and encourage your team to do the same. Foster a culture of learning and experimentation, and be willing to adapt your approach as new information or technology emerges.
To those who work with or for an INTP leader, I encourage you to:
🤫 Respect their need for solitude: Understand that your INTP leader may need quiet time to recharge and process information. Avoid unnecessary interruptions and trust that they are working even when you don't see them in action.
🗣️ Engage in substantive discussions: INTPs value deep, meaningful conversations about ideas and possibilities. Come prepared to discuss the big picture and the underlying principles behind your work.
📊 Provide logical arguments: When presenting ideas or feedback to your INTP leader, focus on logical, data-driven arguments rather than emotional appeals. Be prepared to back up your points with evidence and examples.
💡 Be open to unconventional ideas: Your INTP leader may propose ideas that seem unconventional or even impractical at first. Before dismissing them, take the time to understand the reasoning behind their suggestions and consider how they might lead to innovative solutions.
With the right support and understanding, INTP leaders can achieve great things and bring a valuable perspective to any team or organization. And by embracing our unique strengths and pushing ourselves to grow in authentic ways, we can unlock the quiet power of introverted leadership.
Now that I've shared my experiences and insights as an INTP, I'm curious to hear from you. What's your MBTI personality type, and how has it influenced your personal and professional life? Share your stories in the comments below!
/J
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