Bratton and Frusti 1

Sam Bratton and Cailin Frusti

28 April 2015

Interpersonal Communication

Personality and Communication

At a young age, Isabel Briggs Meyers was introduced to C.G. Jungs theory of

psychological types by her mother. They waited a long time for someone to devise an

instrument that would reflect not only ones preference for extraversion or introversion, but ones

preferred kind of perception and judgement as well (Briggs Meyers xiii). In the summer of

1942, her mother and herself took up the task and created the sixteen personality types. Each of

the sixteen types is labelled with four letters, each representing a different element of their

personality. The first letter can be either an E for extraversion, or an I for introversion. Roy M.

Oswald and Otto Kroeger claim, extraverts relate more to the outer world of things, people, and

environment. Extraverts feel a loss of energy if they engage in too much introspection (2).

Oppositely, they claim introverts prefer to relate more to the inner world of ideas, concepts, and

feelings. Energy expended relating to the outer world returns when Introverts are alone and can

look inside themselves (2). The second letter in the label can either be an N for intuition or an

S for sensation. According to David Keirsey and Marilyn Bates, the person who has a natural

preference for sensation probably describes himself first as practical, while the person who had a

natural preference for intuition probably chooses to describe himself as innovative (16). The

third letter in the categorization can be either an F for feeling or a T for thinking. Persons

who choose the impersonal basis of choice are called the thinking types and persons who choose

the personal basis are called the feeling types (Keirsey 20). The final letter to classify the
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personality types can either be a J for judging or P for perceiving. Those with a preference

for perceiving want to respond to life rather than to plan it. The judging preference identifies

persons who want their lives ordered, structured, and planned (Oswald, Kroeger 3). Each four

letter combination is its own unique personality type, each with its own communication style.

Each personality type has its own traits of communication and points of conflict to avoid when

communicating with individuals of the various types.

DIPLOMATS/IDEALISTS

INFJ is the rarest out of the personality types and is also known as the counselor. They

are very creative individuals who are filled with integrity and have a drive to help others realize

their potential. When communicating with other people, individuals with the INFJ personality

type tend to keep their thoughts and emotions to themselves until they feel ready and

comfortable with the idea of sharing those thoughts with the other individual. They do not like

communicating in a group, but rather one-on-one with an individual of whom they trust. When

someone is attempting to communicate with an INFJ, one should be encouraging and affirming.

INFJs value harmony in their relationships, so by being encouraging, you will be enforcing the

harmony in your relationship. The second thing one should consider is to give them a few

moments to process their thoughts. INFJS need time to think about new information thrown their

way, and by giving them the time to think through these things, a stronger communication will

develop. There are also some points of conflict to avoid when communicating with INFJs. The

first is to give them too much new information to digest. This conflicts with their time needed to

process new information, so one should try to tell them the big-picture of what you are trying to

communicate. The second conflict to avoid is judgement and criticism. Since INFJs are
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motivated by affirmation and encouragement, judgement and criticism tear them down and is an

improper way to communicate with them.

ENFJ is referred to as the Teacher. When reaching out to others ENFJs are expressive

and warm, they like to lead others in planning and they see the gifts each individual has.

Communicating with a ENFJ seek how the task you are working on develops the individuals,

build relationships with them but remain task focused and give them flexibility on how to

achieve tasks. If they are presented with harsh judgments from others, theirs beliefs are

undermined or differences cannot be willingly resolved there may be conflict with an ENFJ

(Personality Central).

INFP is the personality type better known as the healer. These individuals are always

looking for the best in everyone and tend to look for ways to make things better. When

communicating with other people, INFPs excel at listening, but hold back on expressing their

emotions. One thing an individual who is attempting to communicate with an INFP can do to

strengthen the communication is to share personal meaning. If an individual says how important

something is to them and show how it connects personally to them, an INFP is more likely to

complete to task asked of them and to perform the task well. Another thing someone can do to

strengthen the communication with an INFP is to show how the information being relayed can

help develop others. INFPs strive to help bring out the best in others, so by sharing this

information, you will better communicate with an INFP. However, there are some conflict points

to avoid with an INFP. The first is by compromising their values. If an INFP is faced in a

decision which compromises their morals, a conflict could potentially arise. Another conflict to

avoid is making the INFP feel as if they are being trampled. If an INFP feels as though someone

is merely just using them, tension and conflict will become present.
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The name given to the ENFP personality type is the Champion. People of this type are

outgoing, compassionate, and full of energy. ENFPs enjoy working with groups and the different

ideas that the other individuals can bring to the group. They are skilled in recognizing the

strengths and weaknesses and others and strive to help them grow and learn. When reaching out

to an ENFP be supportive and encouraging, get to know them personally, and focus on how what

you are doing develops others. Things that may bring out conflict with an ENFP are violating

their beliefs, although they are very open and flexible they still have deeply ground beliefs.

Hurting or offending the people close to them or unnecessary administrative procedures that

block their ability to put their new ideas into action can also create conflict with an ENFP

(Personality Central).

ANALYSTS/RATIONALS

INTP is the personality type that is often referred to as the architect. These individuals

are philosophical innovators, fascinated by logical analysis, systems, and design (Briggs

Myers' 16). When communicating with other people, INTPs initially appear to be detached, but

as one gets to know them better, they begin to see their casual side. They are most comfortable

communicating about topics such as theories and identifying root problems. One thing an

individual who is attempting to communicate with an INTP can do to strengthen the

communication is to use reason and logic. Conversations based upon logic and reason helps

convince INTPs that what you are saying is true and will therefore strengthen your

communication. A second thing one can do is to give the conversation an opportunity for open-

ended brainstorming. INTPs enjoy brainstorming new ideas and coming up with new ways to fix

problems, so by allowing them this opportunity will strengthen your conversation. However,

when communicating with an INTP, one should not take their critiques too personally. If an INTP
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does not agree with what one is saying, they will express it and critique what was just said. If

that individual expresses that they took the critique personally, conflict will arise in their

communication with the INTP.

INTJ also falls under the analysts category and is better known as the mastermind.

INTJs are best known for their ability to solve problems in any type of setting. When

communicating with others, INTJs like to get straight to the point, leaving no room for small

talk. If an individual is attempting to communicate with an INTJ, there are several key points to

take into consideration. The first is to get right to the point. Due to INTJs dislike for small talk,

you should avoid this all together and jump right to the conclusion of what you are trying to

relay. Secondly, one should ask INTJs for their opinion or insight on a topic. Often times, INTJs

will formulate their own opinion on something, but will not give it out unless asked to.

Therefore, by asking for their opinions on a topic, communication will strengthen between

oneself and an INTJ. One thing that can cause conflict when communicating with an INTJ is

bringing emotions into the conversation. INTJs do not often enjoy dealing with the emotions of

other people, so by bringing emotions into the conversation, your communication with weaken.

Another point of conflict to avoid is to ask the INTJ to explain why they decided the way they

did. INTJs often times just have a hunch about something, and cannot offer an explanation for

choosing the way they did. Thus, by prompting them for an explanation, conflict could arise.

The Fieldmarshal is the term that is used for the ENTJ. Fieldmarshals are assertive

leaders are task oriented and are not afraid to get going to achieve their goals. The best ways to

speak with an ENTJ are to show them your competence, avoid small talk and do not give them

anything irrelevant, if it distracts from the goals they are trying to achieve it is best to just avoid

talking about it. Key conflict points with and ENTJ are dealing with emotional reactions of
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others, feeling like goal cannot be reached or have the change wanted, and finally talking to

much about what you are going to do rather than actually doing it (Personality Central).

The ENTP is also called the Inventor people of this type find new ways of fixing

problems, they focus on the big picture and are persuasive. Inventors begin building gadgets

and mechanisms as young children, and never really stop, though as adults they will turn their

inventiveness to many kinds of organizations, social as well as mechanical (Personality Test).

Communicating with an ENTP should be logical, focused on the whole rather than details, and

be open to hearing their perspective. To bypass conflict do not pressure them into finding a

solution, micromanage them or doubt their skills. Inventors need to be trusted that they can find a

solution and they need the time and space to get it accomplished (Personality Central).

EXPLORERS/ARTISANS

ISTP falls under the artisans category and is better known as the craftsman. ISTPs are

bold and practical experimenters, masters of all kinds of tools (16Personalities). Because

ISTPs strive to get their work done in a timely manner and with the least amount of effort, they

dislike conversation that would slow them down or get in the way of getting their work done.

When an individual is attempting to communicate with an ISTP, it is important that they be

logical, precise, direct, and objective (Personality Central). ISTPs do not like emotions

getting in the way of their work, so there is no need for small talk or other filler forms of

communication. A second thing one can do to strengthen the communication with an ISTP is to

tell them simply what needs to be done, and not how it needs to be done. ISTPs enjoy figuring

out their own way to do things, so by simply telling them what needs to be down allows them the

freedom of figuring it out. If one tells an ISTP what to do and then dictates how they are
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supposed to do it, the ISTP will feel stressed and overwhelmed, and conflict could arise in the

communication.

ISFP is the personality type better known as the composer. ISFPs are gentle caretakers

who live in the present moment and enjoy their surroundings with cheerful, low-key enthusiasm

(Briggs Myers' 16). ISFPs are individuals who dislike conflict and will often only speak up if

they feel like their values are being attacked. They prefer one-on-one communication and prefer

the focus be on the other individual in the conversation. If a person is attempting to communicate

with an ISFP, they should provide clear and precise instructions to complete tasks (personality-

central.com). ISFPs value precise instructions on how to get things done, and will follow these

instructions to complete the task. ISFPs love helping others, so if you are providing information

to an ISFP, it is important that you show how this information can be helpful to others. One point

of conflict to avoid when communicating with an ISFP is compromising their values. ISFPs

treasure their morals and values, so by compromising them, conflict could potentially arise.

ESTP can also be called the Promoter. These people are the party starters, thrill

seekers, but are also practical and analytical rather than emotional. When they communicate,

they are straightforward and convincing. When talking to an ESTP be logical, concrete and

practical also keep the conversation active and lighthearted to keep their attention so they do not

get tired of what you are talking about. If their competence is doubted, they are micromanaged or

they are seen as to casual while working conflict may arise with an ESFP. They are spontaneous

and like to have fun, however they take their work seriously so a gentle reminder of the task at

hand is preferred (Personality Central).

ESFP is known as the Performer. Performers are warm, friendly and willing to help.

They prefer the practical and take each moment as a gift. To reach a ESFP be enthusiastic,
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engage their five senses and bring a human element into problems, if they see the way it impacts

people in real life they will be more interested. Conflict may arise if their values are violated,

management restricts their independence or their fun loving nature is misunderstood

(Personality Central). Whether on the job, with friends, or with their families, Performers are

exciting and full of fun, and their great social interest lies in stimulating those around them to

take a break from work and worry, to lighten up and enjoy life (Personality Test).

SENTINELS/GUARDIANS

ISTJs fall under the Guardians category and are better known as the inspectors. ISTJs

are responsible organizers, driven to create and enforce order within systems and institutions

(Briggs Myers' 16). When communicating with others, ISTJs do not like to waste time with small

talk, but rather get right to the core of the conversation. When explaining how to do things, ISTJs

give very precise directions and expect everyone else to follow through with them. If an

individual is attempting to communicate with an ISTJ, it is important that they state exactly what

you want them to do. ISTJs value precision, so by telling them exactly what you want them to do

and limiting small talk, your communication with strengthen. Also when communicating with an

ISTJ, it is important you present them with facts and evidence. This helps persuade them that

what you are saying is true and will therefore strengthen your communication. When

communicating with an ISTJ, an individual needs to give them time to consider a decision. ISTJs

need time to process the decision to make the best choice. If not, conflict could potentially arise.

One also needs to limit the small talk with an ISTJ because they feel like small talk just wastes

time and takes time away from other matters.

ISFJs are the personality types better known as the protectors. ISFJs have an

extraordinary sense of loyalty and responsibility in their makeup, and seem fulfilled in the degree
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they can shield others from the dirt and dangers of the world (Personality Test). When

communicating, ISFJs have the most confidence in the information that they gained from their

own personal experiences. Due to their dislike for being in the spotlight, ISFJs prefer the

attention to be on other people in the conversation and therefore come across as private or

reserved people. They prefer one-on-one communication as opposed to speaking in a large

group. If an individual is attempting to communicate with an ISFJ, they should use positive

feedback and encouragement. ISFJs strive off the positive feedback of others, so by offering

them encouragement, your relationship will strengthen. When confronting them with a decision,

ISFJs need time to reflect before deciding. They often use this time to link the decision to their

past personal experiences in order to make the right choice. By giving them this time, your

communication with an ISFJ will strengthen. Due to their need for positive feedback and

encouragement, conflict could potentially arise if an ISFJ is confronted with judgement or

criticism. If you want to critique an ISFJ, one should use a positive approach to avoid conflict.

ESTJ is called the Supervisor people with this personality type are social, task oriented,

and very structured. When they see a lack of organization, the ESTJ often takes the initiative to

establish processes and guidelines, so that everyone knows what's expected (Briggs Myers' 16).

When ESTJs communicate, they are precise, detailed, and accurate. When communicating with

an ESTJ demonstrate your competence, clearly define roles and get to the point people so this

type appreciate the straight forward, efficient, and practical approach to things. When

communicating with a person who is an ESTJ conflict may arise when they have to deal with the

emotional reactions of others, they prefer to keep emotions out of work because they feel they

are irrelevant. Other potential causes of conflict are arguments that overlook the facts and when

people question their authority (Personality Central).

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The ESFJ is also known as the Provider. People of this type are friendly, care about the

wellbeing of others as well as dependable and timely. When given a task they complete them

effectively, and when making decisions they think ahead to the needs of others. When

communicating with an ESFJ be encouraging but still task focused, give them concrete evidence

to back up your side, and teach the how to do it when presenting them with something new they

like to do things in ways that they know have been successful in the past. Avoid undermining

their beliefs, making them feel like you take their loyalty for granted, and causing upset with the

people close to them to prevent conflict (Personality Central).

Although there are many different personalities and each person does not fit perfectly into

just one of these personalities there are many similarities between them that can be used when

communicating with another person. Such as an introverts need to think about a subject and not

just spit out the first thing that come to them like an extrovert. So how will talk with others to

best avoid conflict?

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Works Cited

16Personalities. NERIS Analytics Limited, n.d. Web. 23 Apr. 2015.

Briggs Myers' 16 Personality Types: In-Depth Profiles. Truity Psychometrics LLC, n.d.

Web. 23 Apr. 2015.

Keirsey, David, and Marilyn M. Bates. Please Understand Me: Character &

Temperament Types. Del Mar, CA: Distributed by Prometheus Nemesis Book,

1984. Print.

Myers, Isabel Briggs., and Peter B. Myers. Gifts Differing. Palo Alto, CA: Consulting

Psychologists Pr., 1980. Print.

Oswald, Roy M., and Otto Kroeger. Personality Type and Religious Leadership.

Washington, D.C.: Alban Institute, 1988. Print.

Personality Central. N.p., Apr. 2015. Web. 23 Apr. 2015.

Personality Test - Keirsey Temperament Website. N.p., n.d. Web. 23 Apr. 2015.