The MBTI - Introverts and Extroverts
You may have come across the Myers Briggs Type Indicator, one of the best ways of gaining an in-depth understanding of yourself which can be used to enhance relationships, work better in a team, choose a career and more.
One of the scales is called Extraversion and Introversion. People often get confused by the psychological description and the way these words are used in every day language. In general conversation introverts are shy and reserved and extraverts are loud and outgoing, but this is just one aspect of this scale.
 Extravert Characteristics
-
Pulled towards the external world
-
Energised by other people
-
Acts and then (maybe) reflects
-
Friendly, talkative and easy to get to know
-
Shares feelings and emotions
-
Needs relationships
Introvert Characteristics
-
Pushed inwards by external pressures
-
Energised by internal experiences
-
Reflects then (maybe) acts
-
Reserved, quiet and hard to get to know
-
Bottles up emotions
-
Needs privacy
In work environments, Extraverts seek variety and action and like to work around and be with others. They like to think aloud and look for input from others for their ideas. Introverts prefer a work environment where they can have quiet for concentration. They can work contentedly alone and like to carefully think over their work.
When I work with clients I now almost always use the MBTI Step 2. This looks at the facets, or subscales of the Extraversion- Introversion continuum. There are 5 facets to extaversion-introversion:
Initiating–Receiving - To what extent do you initiate conversations in social situations? How at ease are you in social situations? To what extent will you introduce people to each other?
Expressive–Contained - To what extent are you likely to give the impression of readily confiding in others? How much are you interested in others? How much of your self do you keep private?
Gregarious–Intimate - To what extent do you prefer large groups or one to one conversations? How comfortable are you when talking with strangers? Do you seek close relationships with people?
Active–Reflective - To what extent do you prefer to communicate in writing or face to face? Do you prefer to learn new material independently or in discussion?
Enthusiastic–Quiet - To what extent do you show enthusiasm? Do you  seek out quiet or action? To find out more about the MBTI you can read it here:
Email This Post | Print This Post | Permalink
Spread the word:
