Knowledge & Information / Why are personality styles important?

1) Certain styles are attracted to certain occupations

Not only are they "attracted" to certain types of jobs/careers, they typically are more satisfied, productive, and creative in fields conducive to their personality styles. For example, someone who is a high S may be more content working as a nurse rather than as a stockbroker. Keep in mind that anyone can do any job, but only certain "styles" will truly be content in a particular job. This workbook attempts to identify your style and suggests occupations enjoyed by your style.

2) Understanding styles helps you become a better communicator

It is terribly difficult to get along well and communicate well with people you don’t understand. You will often misinterpret actions or words. Sometimes, you’ll get frustrated with those whose personalities are opposite of yours. Once you understand how to determine another’s personality style, you find the key to unlock better communication. It’s simple: if you want to get along with a forceful and direct person, be forceful and direct with her. If you want to communicate better with a friendly and optimistic person, be friendly and optimistic with him. If you seek to be understood by the patient and practical person, be
patient and practical with her. If you want to reduce conflicts with the precise and analytical person, be precise and analytical with him. Remember -- you must allow your personality style to be flexible. Before you can modify your behavior to another person’s style, you should spend time OBSERVING that person, looking for certain interactions, verbal clues, body language, and living/work-space qualities.

3) Understanding styles helps you resolve or prevent workplace conflicts

When you understand why someone did or said something, you will be less likely to react negatively. An awareness of another’s underlying motivations can allow you to diffuse problems before they even start. For example, in the workplace, your boss wants to know how you are adapting to your job responsibilities and wants the "bottom line." He asks "Are you ready for more responsibility?" and "How much time are you spending on each project?" You would rather he ask about your feelings and ask if you are having a good day at work. When you realize your boss is a high D and you are a high I, you can adjust your expectations of him accordingly.

4) Understanding styles helps you appreciate the differences in others

You know that all people are unique, but sometimes you get frustrated with those who don’t quite fit your communication style. Maybe your manager is analytical and wants all the facts, while you just want her to care about you and your idea. If you understand that she is a high C/D and you are a high S/I, it is easier to communicate. You can appreciate her style and then give her all the facts you can muster.