Did you know that “fit” is one of the biggest indicators of whether you will both succeed and be happy in a particular job? All companies have their own culture, and all roles have their own expectations. Your unique personality plays a significant role in determining whether a particular work culture and role are the right fit for you. The Myers-Briggs personality test (officially the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, or MBTI) is one of the best-known personality assessments available. Here’s how learning your type can help you find the right job.
What Is the MBTI?
The Myers-Briggs personality test is a formal assessment that determines which of 16 personality types you have, based on four pairs of contrasting elements. These include:
- Extroversion vs. Introversion: Are you a people person or more self-directed?
- Sensing vs. Intuition: How do you process the world? Through externally provided data or your own perceptions of meaning?
- Thinking vs. Feeling: Do you prefer to make decisions based on logic or values and emotions?
- Judging vs. Perceiving: Do you need strict order and hierarchies in your life, or do you question everything?
Remember, there are no right or wrong answers. Every personality type is equally valid, and each has its place in the workforce. But trying to force yourself into a role or a work culture that is fundamentally opposed to your personality can be exhausting and demoralizing and ultimately lead to burnout. It’s far better to understand your personality type upfront, and choose a position that fits.
Learn Your Personality Type
The first step is to take the Myers-Briggs personality test. You can take the test online for a small fee, or it may be offered free of charge at your staffing agency or potential employer. When you get your results, take the time to study them. Learn what makes you tick, and how your various personality traits might apply in the workplace.
Look Into Jobs that Fit Your Personality
You have two basic options here. If you’re not sure what career you want, researching which personality types fit best in which careers can help you narrow it down. Alternately, if you know what career you ultimately want, you can chart a path to get there through a sequence of jobs that fit your personality. For example, a highly extroverted person might choose to climb the corporate ladder through sales and customer service positions, while an extreme introvert might prefer a path that involves less customer contact.
Find Your Passion
Of course, your personality type is only one part of the equation. You’ll also need to figure out what drives you. Remember the old saying, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Don’t pick a job solely because it fits your personality type. Instead, find your passion, and then use your personality type to narrow down specific positions within that area of interest.
Ready for a New Position?
If you’re ready to jumpstart your career, Pirate Staffing can help. Take a look at our open opportunities, or simply submit your resume today!