What I love most about understanding the different Myers-Briggs Types (MBTI®) is applying the insights. One of which is adapting your communication style for enhanced results.
Specifically, your MBTI® Type reveals how you see, express, and act on elements of emotional intelligence.
Through learning, you open yourself up to be more appreciative of others’ diverse perspectives and approaches. Equally important, you expand your Emotional Intelligence capabilities, to accept and flex more. This is a vital asset for any leader or team player. For instance, you can better prepare for various interactions, such as when leading a meeting or having a difficult conversation.
In fact, there are four mental functions described in Jung’s typology that are categorized into two areas as shown below.
First, there are the Perceiving Functions.
These functions look at how we take in information. Those who have a preference for:
- Sensing: Gather information through the five senses focusing on concrete facts, details, and experiences that occur in the present.
- Intuition: Gather information as patterns or global wholes focusing on interrelationships, meanings, and possibilities in the future.
Second, there are the Judging Functions.
These consider how we come to conclusions and make decisions. We either have a preference for:
- Thinking: Conclusions are based on logical analysis of Sensing or Intuitive information; and focus is on fairness and objectivity.
- Feeling: Conclusions are based on personal values about Sensing or Intuitive information; and focus is on empathy and harmony.
As you foster relationships, share your preferences. Likewise, flex your communication style to others. As a result, you’ll nurture stronger relationships and connections. Of course, this is essential when trying to influence or explain something to someone else. To illustrate, shown below are tips on per preference area.
When sharing information with Sensing Types:
- Be factual
- Share successful applications
- Reduce potential risk factors
- Provide details
- Show why the solution makes sense
And for Intuitive Types, make sure to:
- Give the big picture
- Don’t let opportunities pass
- Be confident and enthusiastic
- Indicate challenges
- Point out future-benefits
With Thinking Types:
- Be logical
- State principles involved
- Stress competent handling of any issues
- Be well organized
- List costs and benefits if relevant
And for Feeling Types:
- Mention other supporters
- Be personable and friendly
- Indicate how solutions are helpful
- Tell why it’s valuable
- Show how it supports personal goals
Over time our energy and interests transition, yet our innate type does not change. This may cause uncertainty and challenges as we become emotionally aware of our limitations. As a certified MBTI® practitioner, I’m able to help individuals and teams learn their preferences and apply them. Contact me to learn more.