The average workplace is a diverse place, with people of all different kinds of personalities. If you strategically bring them together and utilize their unique personalities, strengths and perspectives can create a resilient, high-performing team.
So do you want to master the art of team building by unlocking the power of personality types? Read on to learn how you can use the unique traits of the different personality types to create a thriving, productive workplace and bring out the best in your team.
How can you understand the dynamics of each personality type?
- Unleash the visionaries – ENTP, ENTJ:
These are the strategic architects who paint the big picture, they’re the dreamers who can inspire a team, but one thing you need to know is that once in a while you will need to gently step in to help keep their ideas grounded.
So encourage open discussions, and pair them with someone who is more of a ‘doer’ and can turn and structure their dreams into actionable plans.
- Nurture the harmonizers – INFP, INFJ:
They are the heartbeats of the team, with their empathetic and sensitive nature, they’re the glue that keeps the team together and fosters ‘positive vibes’ within the team, but stepping into the spotlight might not come naturally so you will need to ease them in gently
Assign them roles that involve building relationships, and create spaces for their voices to be heard.
- The master crafters of precision Crafters – ISTJ, INTJ:
Detail-oriented and analytical, they are the ones who make sure nothing slips through the cracks. They excel in structured environments, but a little push for spontaneity won’t hurt.
Any tasks assigned to them need to have clearly defined goals, and timelines, this can allow them to showcase their organizational prowess while encouraging flexibility.
- Energetic collaborators – ESTP, ESFP:
They bring the zest and are quick problem-solvers; they’re the masters of spontaneity. This is why you would have to be strategic in keeping them focused, so channel their energy into tasks that demand quick thinking, balancing it with the overarching team objectives.
How do you build a highly effective team?
Tip 1: Know your team’s composition
Understanding your team’s strengths, communication styles, and preferences is the cornerstone of highly effective leadership. Conduct personality assessments to unveil the unique traits that shape each team member.
Tip 2: Mix and match
Just as a chef combines various ingredients for a perfect dish, build your teams with a mix of different personalities. This not only diversifies skill sets but also introduces different perspectives which is crucial for innovation.
Tip 3: Encourage open conversations
Communication is the lifeblood of any team. Create an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing ideas, concerns, and opinions. This not only enhances collaboration but also sparks creativity.
Tip 4: Provide a workflow that is structured but flexible
Offer a framework for tasks and goals, but allow room for flexibility. This provides the necessary structure while accommodating the varied working styles of each team member.
Tip 5: Celebrate each team member’s uniqueness
Every individual is a piece of the puzzle that contributes to the bigger picture. So celebrate the diversity within your team, creating an inclusive culture where differences are not just accepted but cherished.
3 Examples of how you can use personality tests in team building
Example 1: Bridging creativity and practicality
Picture a marketing team with a visionary creative director (ENTP) and a meticulous data analyst (ISTJ), by recognizing and respecting each other’s strengths, they can create campaigns that blend imagination with data-driven precision.
Example 2: Innovating with energy and strategy
In a tech startup, an energetic go-getter (ESTP) collaborates with a thoughtful strategist (INFJ). The result? A dynamic team that innovates rapidly, maintains a human-centric approach and delivers groundbreaking solutions.
Example 3: Navigating challenges with team harmony
During a tough project, the harmony seekers (INFP, INFJ) play a vital role in keeping team morale high. Despite obstacles, the collective spirit remains resilient, proving the power of emotional intelligence.
Read also: Ultimate Guide To Socionics and Personality Types
As you start your team-building journey, keep this in mind: it’s not about getting rid of conflict, it’s about creating a beautiful collaboration that leads to success. So embrace different perspectives, lead with compassion, and watch your team create a tapestry of success that reflects the true meaning of collaboration.
Are you ready to start building a more resilient, high-performing team? Start with our Team Evaluation Form Template