To be an effective leader, you need first to know yourself and be self-aware.

Applying models such as the Enneagram to project leadership can radically improve management, collaboration, and communication, the tools for successful project management.

I am going to introduce a second popular personality model, The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI), to inform your exploration of personality types.

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

The MBTI was developed by mother and daughter, Katharine Briggs and Isabel Myers, in the 1940s and 50s, extending Carl Jung’s theory of psychological type from the 1920s. Jung gave us Extrovert or Introvert, Sensing or intuition and Thinking or Feeling.

The MBTI extends Jung’s work by helping us to see patterns in how we prefer to use our perception and judgment. This framework aligns perfectly with how project managers analyze the impact on team dynamics by leveraging Myers Briggs test.

Perception is how we come to knowledge, whereas judgment is how we come to conclusions. Since we all differ in how we perceive and judge, we differ in how we relate to the world around us.

What are the Four Myers Briggs Personality Preferences?

The MBTI mirror or instrument views personality through four lenses as follows:

Extrovert or Introvert

Do you relate more to the external or internal world? This dimension captures where you draw your energy from—whether from interacting with others or reflecting on your thoughts. Those with extraversion tend to gain energy from spending time with others, which can be essential for motivating the project team.

Sensing or Intuition

How do you prefer to take in or perceive information? Do you focus on concrete, tangible details (Sensing) or abstract patterns and possibilities (Intuition)? Detail-oriented team members are usually more Sensing, making them key for task allocation in project outcomes.

Thinking or Feeling

How do you prefer to make conclusions and decisions? Are you more analytical and objective (Thinking) or empathetic and values-based (Feeling)?

Judging or Perceiving

Do you seek organization and closure or are you open and spontaneous? This preference shapes how you approach tasks and manage information.

With two possibilities for each of the four preferences, there are sixteen MBTI types. For example, an INTP person prefers Introversion, iNtuition, Thinking and Perceiving. 

The MBTI Theory of Natural Disposition

The MBTI theory believes that we are born with a natural pre-disposition to four of the above eight traits. We develop these preferred traits in earlier life, which gives us a particular personality.

Later, we can also develop the weaker traits to be more balanced as needed. For example, an extrovert may seek more alone and reflective time to develop and leverage their introverted side.

How to Use the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator

There are no right or wrong types of MBTI: all types are equal. There is, however, knowledge and understanding. 

Reliable and trustworthy instruments like the Myers-Briggs personality test can help project managers understand personality type indicators to allocate resources and guide the project team to deliver the best project possible. 

This approach will also help you recognize your personal attitude to life. 

The Impact of Each Personality Type

Each personality type has a unique approach to life and work, preferring to think, learn, interact with others and relax in different ways. 

Recognizing the different Myers-Briggs types within project teams can also influence communication styles and help with conflict resolution.

As eloquently stated by Isabel Briggs Myers:

“When people differ, a knowledge of type lessens friction and eases strain. In addition, it reveals the value of differences. No one has to be good at everything.”

Applying this viewpoint to your personal and professional life will yield many benefits.