The Myers-Briggs® INFP Personality Type Leadership Preference

In Business and Leadership, INFP, Leadership, MBTI by Geeta Aneja

INFP Personality Type Leadership Preferences

This week’s post focuses on Introverted-Intuition-Feeling-Perceiving (INFP) personality types and how they can effectively adapt to today’s fast-paced, complex working environment.

People are often told to capitalize on their strengths to maximize their achievements, both in and out of the workplace. Before modern leadership development strategies were prominent, people would try dozens of strategies and thousands of combinations before finding the mix that was just right for them (Richmond, 2008). Today, leaders are inundated with strategies, seminars, techniques, and workshops to help them lead their teams. One of the most prominent and well known team building and leadership tool is Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®).

Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

INFP’s are known for their dedication, consideration for others, and focus on long-term, lasting value. They are committed to considering a variety of options and alternatives before settling on the best strategy both ethically and in the best interest of the company, employees, and clients. In other words, they try to make sure that everyone wins. The downside of this can be the consideration of too many different paths, which can overcomplicate an otherwise strong vision. Richards (2008) suggests that INFP’s adopt an adage called Occam’s razor, which states “the simplest solution is the best.” This philosophy can help distill otherwise complex problems to relatively straightforward action plans.

INFP’s also have strong interpersonal skills, and can easily build trust with others. They are compassionate and caring, both in and out of the workplace. That said, they are introverted—spending too much time around large groups can drain them mentally and physically. If you are an INFP, be sure to take the time to recharge by taking short breaks or just scheduling alone time to collect your thoughts in the middle of a busy day.

Perhaps one of INFPs’ greatest strengths is their ability to focus on long-term change for every member of their team. They trust others to perform, which helps motivate individuals, and have a drive to produce quality output, which is in the best interest of the company. In order to develop these qualities, Richards (2008) suggests that they make an effort to respect internal and external deadlines, and make an effort to accept the feedback of others. Remember that someone offering a critique of your idea or proposal – especially internally – isn’t necessarily a bad thing. On the other hand, it can be a demonstration of concern and respect – they are trying to support you in producing the best possible product.

In order to continue to progress and become even more effective in the workplace, Richmond (2008) suggests INFP’s take a voice or acting course for business people or professionals. This will help you modulate your voice so that your intonation and mannerisms work with your message to be more convincing and coherent. She also suggests that INFP’s look into human services or development organizations, as their altruistic goals may align with the personal goals.

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 References

Introduction to Type and Leadership (Richmond, S. CPP. 2008)

Learn More About the MBTI INFP Personality Type

INFP Careers

Click on one of these corresponding popular INFP Careers for detailed information including Career Stats, Income Stats, Daily Tasks and Required Education: Audiovisual Specialist, Broadcast Technician, Craft Artist, Film or Video Editor, Fine Artist, Food Preparation Worker, Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners, Occupational Therapist, Proofreader or Copyeditor, Technical Writer.

Explore Our Other INFP Blog Pages:

Click On Your Personality Type Below & Read About Your Leadership Style:

ISTJ ISFJ ESTP ESFP
ISTP ISFP ESTJ ESFJ
INFJ INTJ ENFP ENTP
INFP INTP ENFJ ENTJ