Am I an introvert or an extrovert?
Do I naturally approach the world by thinking first or acting?
What motivates me to get things done?
These are the kind of questions we seek to answer when taking a self-assessment or personality test.
There are many assessments available, and the options continue to grow.
Some are free while others can cost $100 or more. Each tool has varying levels of research behind them and can provide different insights into how you approach the world.
There are people who are are reluctant to take these assessments and believe that others will use the information to judge them and hold them back.
Others believe that they can personally learn what drives them and how they can continue to grow and develop.
My Perspective
I have been a fan of personality tests since taking the Meyers-Briggs back in the 1990s.
I was fascinated by how accurate the test was able to pinpoint my approach to the world.
This also helped me understand that my approach wasn’t the ONLY approach.
Being a good co-worker and partner to others by respecting our differences is very important.
Over the years, I’ve found personality tests to be a great foundation to better understand myself (and my rough edges) and start conversations with others on their strengths.
The key is to leverage them for what they are – a guide or a tool, not an absolute.
If they are used by individuals and teams with positive intent to work better together, they can help propel everyone forward at a faster pace.
Your Turn
Have you taken a personality test?
If so, did you gain insight that you were able to apply in your daily life?
Do you believe these tests can be used to start positive team conversations?