Type preferences in the workplace – #3 Thinking and Feeling
Swiss psychologist Carl Jung first proposed that we are “all different, but predictably so” – ie that we have innate (in born) preferences that drive our behaviours – how we interact and respond to situations. Many of the personality type questionnaires used today have their roots in his work – more explanation in my blog Personality Types and the MBTI®.
Here I take one dimension of type as described in the Myers Briggs Type Indicator® and highlight how it can impact in the workplace. Even if you don’t know your MBTI ® type you can have a go at working it out from here – see at bottom of article for information on my profiling service:
In making decisions: which do we use first our ‘Head’, ie logical objective and rational (Thinking); or our ‘Heart’ – deciding based on the impact on people and values (Feeling)?. Note that most of us do both – however, one is likely to dominate.
In the workplace we might notice the following preferences for working environment and communication:
| THINKING | FEELING |
| Use logical analysis and facts – weigh up pros and cons
The task is the focus at work Tend to be critical rather than give praise Prefer to be brief and concise Questionning |
Draw on values and people’s likes and dislikes to make decisions
Enjoy harmony and teamwork Avoid unpleasant people situations Like to be appreciated during tasks Accepting |
In summary:
Thinker motto: ‘It’s more important to be right than liked’
Feeler motto: “Let’s all be friends’
Here are a few tips for each type to operate effectively and accommodate for other type
| If your preference is for Thinking | If your preference is for Feeling |
| Think about the impact of your words on people who may perceive things differently to you
Warm up your communications and add a personal element Look up from your tasks and make connections Offer some praise as well as constructive criticism Challenge gently |
Consider the facts of the situation as well as the people
Give rational reasons for decisions rather than personal ones Know when to focus on the task and minimise the human interactions Don’t take criticism to heart Be prepared to question and challenge
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Discover your own full MBTI type and get feedback to inform your self awareness of strengths and development points – click here for more information on my service.
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Email Zoë Whitby: zoe@zwcoaching.co.uk
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