There’s more to personality testing than introvert vs. extravert – here’s why

Studies show that introverts make up one third to one half of the population. Yet, in most workplaces, extraverts tend to be praised. There’s not always a clear distinction between the two personality types. You could be more of an extravert with your friends, but in a corporate scenario, show introvert qualities, and vice versa.

Extraverts love groups of people and constant stimulation. They feed off the energy of others and crave social settings – fuelled by external stimuli such as personal interactions, social gatherings and sharing ideas. The outward nourishes the inward.

Introverts, on the other hand, don’t enjoy noise, interruptions or big groups. Favouring solitude, they like the time to think before acting and love one-on-one relationships. Reflection is an introvert’s best friend, exploring their inner selves to recharge and grow.

The problem is, there are more than two sides to personalities. Simply classifying someone as an introvert or extravert doesn’t tell you much. But, Tick’s personality profiling tools do.

Based on science, the profiling system categories people into one of four ‘bird types’ – an Eagle, Peacock, Owl or Dove (showing you what bird is most prevalent, as well as other qualities).

This insight gives you a deep level of understanding about you, or another person, well beyond what you assume as an ‘introvert’ or ‘extravert.’

The four personalities in your team

Good teams are dynamic and celebrate difference. Successful teams not only require a range of skills but also perspectives. Instead of talking about extraverts, you can label them Eagles or Peacocks. And Doves, your introverts.

But the most important takeaway here is that we’re all unique and it’s effective to use this profiling system to help increase motivation, productivity, and engagement. Identify the requirements of the people completing any one task, then match the people with those bird type qualities.

A group will be more cohesive and effective when there’s a healthy balance of dominant and side-line members. In a team setting, both are important and feed of each other.

Do this exercise: You’ll need to fill in your details so we can send you the sample tests. Create a four-columned list, with a bird type in each one. Write down the name of each one of your team members in the column they fall into.

Do you have an even break down of both personality types? Are there more quiet team members than the rest? Pair them close to an extravert for a few days and observe the dynamic.

Provide a level playing field for employees who differ in their level of introversion and extraversion. Plan a ‘personality exploration’ day. This is an effective tool for managers, leaders, HR, and business owners.

Discover what your people can bring to the table, by getting to know them beyond shallow personality labels. Tick’s personality profiling tool is the missing piece.

Request your free samples today.