Reference no: EM133710789 , Length: word count:500

Question: Let's learn about our personalities and how our personalities affect how we see leadership issues. Many people have undergone a number of personality assessments, sometimes on their own or as part of an organizational development strategy of their workplaces. For the purpose of this exercise, we will use a modified version of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Using the modified "Personality Type Indicator" found on pp. 5-10 of Keirsey D. "Keirsey Temperament Sorter" and the answer sheet posted in the course content section, record your answers and determine your "type".

Then review Keirsey and Bates' "Please Understand Me", and discuss if you agree or not with the traits assigned to your personality.

For those of you that have taken Myer-Briggs or similar exercises, please indicate if these results differ substantially from previous times.

Christopher
After taking the Keirsey Personality Type Indicator, the test revealed that I am predominantly a ESTJ. Some of the traits that describe an individual with ESTJ are excelling at organizing procedures and adhering to rules and regulations. ESTJ individuals judge others based on their adherence to established standard operating procedures and are loyal to their organizations. ESTJ's tend to be organized and favor routines and traditions and are dependable and consistent (Keirsey, 1984).

Interestingly enough, I find the assessment to be rather accurate. In reading the section of ESTJ, and my wife agreed, it fits me rather well. That being said, I imagine that many in the police and military and fire departments share a similar leadership style. In these lines of work, it is a high risk environment. Leaders have an established standard operating procedure and expect subordinates to follow and adhere to the SOPs for organizations. It is not surprising that leaders would demonstrate a more autocratic leadership style. This leadership style helps to cultivate an positive organizational citizenship behavior and discourages deviance from established norms and cultures within the organization (Ali et al., 2019). More evidence that this leadership style is prevalent in these paramilitary and military organizations is the strong relationship that these organizations and members have with tradition. Kierney describes ESTJ individuals as valuing and connecting with people through traditions and rituals. Anyone in the PD, FD, or military will recognize the strong affinity we have for tradition. San Francisco FD are only one of a handful of departments that still utilize wooden ladders, even though the vast majority have FDs have transitioned to aluminum, which is lighter and stronger. Many FDs still participate in "Pipes and Drums", a tradition that dates back to the mid 1850s. Many units in the military still participate in traditions as a way to build comradery and esprit de corps, such as the Naval Academy plebs climbing the Herndon Monument, a tradition dating back to 1940 (AP News, 2024), or the US Army Cavalry Spur Ride, which dates back to when the US Army Cavalry was first established and still rode horses (Soto, 2022).

While some may look at the autocratic leadership style unfavorably, there are significant benefits to this style of leadership, as well as to the adherence to tradition and organizational culture. By establishing a hierarchically organized environment, leaders help to establish a sense of predictability, stability, and safety. People often respond well to predictability and stability, improving morale (DeHoogh et al. 2015). Members who participate in these rituals and traditions develop a sense of belonging. I would not be surprised if there were not a significant percentage of ESTJ leaders in these organizations.

Robert

I recently took the modified Myers-Briggs Type Indicator from Keirsey's "Keirsey Temperament Sorter" and found out that my personality type is INFP. According to Keirsey and Bates (1984), INFPs, or "Idealists," are empathetic, imaginative, and guided by strong values. We present a calm exterior but care deeply about our causes and close relationships. This idealism can sometimes make us feel isolated, as INFPs are rare.

I tend to focus on ideas and concepts rather than getting bogged down by facts and details. When it comes to decision-making, my values and feelings usually take the lead. I also like to keep my options open and appreciate flexibility and adaptability in my schedule. I find that I mostly agree with these traits. For example, I definitely feel more energized after some alone time, which fits with the Introversion aspect of my personality. I also tend to focus on the big picture rather than getting lost in the minutiae, aligning well with the Intuition trait. When making decisions, my feelings and values usually guide me, reflecting the feeling characteristic. Lastly, I prefer to keep my schedule flexible and open to change, which resonates with the Perceiving trait.

However, there are times when I can get pretty detail-oriented, especially when I'm passionate about a project. This suggests that while the INFP type captures a lot about me, it doesn't fit perfectly in every situation. I've taken the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator before and was also classified as an INFP, so this result feels consistent. However, I do remember a time when I tested as an INFJ. This shift might reflect changes in my approach to planning and decision-making, influenced by different work environments or personal growth over time. Understanding my INFP personality type significantly shapes my view on leadership. As an INFP, I really value leaders who are empathetic, visionary, and inclusive. I believe that effective leadership involves understanding and addressing the emotional and ethical dimensions of decision-making. While INFPs might struggle with the more assertive aspects of leadership, such as enforcing rules or making tough decisions without considering individual circumstances, we excel in roles that require innovation, compassion, and inspiring others toward a shared vision. In professional settings, INFPs are adaptable and receptive to new ideas but prefer working alone or with minimal interruptions. We thrive in roles that align with our values, such as psychology, arts, or ministry, where our empathetic and innovative nature can shine.Leadership for INFPs involves empathy, vision, and inclusivity. Insights from Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey emphasize the importance of understanding and engaging with the community, aligning with the INFP's desire to make a positive impact (UMGC, n.d.).

Identifying as an INFP has provided valuable insights into my personality and how it influences my perception of leadership. While I agree with most of the traits associated with INFPs, it's important to recognize that personality assessments can't capture every nuance. This understanding helps me appreciate diverse leadership styles and highlights areas for personal growth in my leadership journey.

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