Complete Guide to Understanding the 16 MBTI Personality Types

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), designed based on Carl Jung's theories, is a psychological tool used to identify 16 personality types. It helps to understand the differences between individuals as well as the deeper reasons that drive their behaviors.

Each personality type is defined by a unique combination of four dimensions that provide an in-depth perspective on its preferences and behavior.

Used in various fields such as personal development, human resources, and coaching, the MBTI is valued for its ability to clarify interpersonal dynamics and foster more effective communication.

Discover here everything you need to know about the 16 MBTI personality types and how this tool can be leveraged in a recruitment process.

Overview of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

The Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), like the Enneagram, is a personality assessment tool. Based on the theory of psychological types, it categorizes individuals into 16 personality types, each presenting specific characteristics.

The Origins of the MBTI

The MBTI was created by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katharine Cook Briggs, in the 1940s. Inspired by Carl Jung's work on psychological types, they developed this tool based on 16 personality types to make his concepts more accessible to the general public.

The primary goal of the MBTI was to enable individuals to better understand their own psychological preferences as well as those of others, in order to foster positive interactions and mutual understanding.

Over the years, the tool has undergone numerous revisions and updates that have improved its accuracy and reliability. Indeed, thanks to the 16 MBTI personality types, significant advances have been made in fields such as education, counseling, and human resources. Today, the MBTI is valued for its ability to provide a better understanding of personality dynamics. It thus highlights the importance of cognitive tests in improving human interactions and individual and collective performance in the workplace.

The Four Dimensions of the MBTI

The 16 MBTI personality types are categorized across four major dimensions:

• Energy Orientation: this dimension describes where the subject draws their energy from. Introversion (I) corresponds to people who draw their energy from ideas and concepts. Extraversion (E) refers to those who draw their energy from their environment and the people around them;
• Information Gathering: this dimension concerns the process of collecting and processing information. Depending on the individual, this process relies on concrete facts and details, which falls under Sensing (S), or on abstract ideas and concepts, which falls under Intuition (N);
• Decision Making: this determines the natural way of making decisions. Two cases are possible. The individual may make decisions after a logical and objective analysis, which evokes Thinking (T), or following a subjective evaluation based on personal values and emotions, which evokes Feeling (F);
• Mode of Action: this dimension describes how the subject takes action: either by planning and structuring activities in the case of Judging (J), or by remaining flexible and open to new information in the case of Perceiving (P).

The combination of different aspects of these four dimensions defines the 16 MBTI personality types. For example, a person with tendencies toward Extraversion, Sensing, Thinking, and Judging is classified as ESTJ. All possible combinations (INFP, ENTJ, INTJ, etc.) yield the complete set of 16 MBTI personality types.

This model can prove beneficial in the context of predictive recruitment. It can, for example, offer insight into candidates' adaptability to the specific requirements of a position.

The MBTI in Recent Years

In recent years, the MBTI has further evolved to adapt to new knowledge in psychology and the changing needs of its users.

Indeed, improvements have been made to increase the reliability and validity of results, and digital and interactive versions of the instrument have been developed to facilitate its use.

Moreover, ongoing research on the 16 personality types and studies on MBTI cognitive functions have deepened the understanding of personality dynamics and strengthened the tool's effectiveness in various professional and personal contexts.

Training and certifications for practitioners have also been established to incorporate the latest discoveries in psychology and best practices for using the MBTI test.

The Difference Between the MBTI and Personality Tests

Unlike many other tests that measure specific personality traits, the MBTI focuses on the psychological preferences and natural behaviors of individuals.

It represents a tool that fosters deeper self-knowledge and understanding of others. Indeed, rather than merely presenting the personality traits of the subjects studied, it focuses on how individuals prefer to perceive the world and make decisions.

This makes it a valuable tool for developing and improving interpersonal relationships within companies and communities.

The 16 MBTI Personality Types

The 16 MBTI personality types are grouped into 4 categories: analysts (INTJ, INTP, ENTJ, ENTP), diplomats (INFJ, INFP, ENFJ, ENFP), sentinels (ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, ESFJ), and explorers (ISTP, ISFP, ESTP, ESFP).

Each category brings together personality types that share common characteristics and similar approaches in their interactions with the world. Knowledge of each of the 16 personality types can be useful in the context of a psychometric test in recruitment. They help assess how each individual can integrate into an existing team and contribute to organizational dynamics.

The Analysts

Analysts are rational and logical thinkers who excel at solving complex problems. They generally stand out for their ability to see beyond the obvious and develop innovative solutions.

The Conceptual Planner (INTJ)

The conceptual planner, the visionary intellectual among the 16 personality types, is an independent architect who excels at developing complex plans and achieves goals with great efficiency. With a high analytical capacity, they study all alternatives to solving a problem and can identify the best one. This makes them excellent in long-term planning and project management roles.

It should be noted that people with this personality generally prefer working with specialists and solving complex problems.

Thus, a conceptual planner could thrive in careers that stimulate their intellect and aim for performance (statistician, architect, microbiologist, investigator, etc.).

The Objective Analyst (INTP)

The objective analyst is a logical thinker who enjoys exploring theories and abstract concepts. Considered one of the most curious among the 16 personality types, they have the ability to step back from challenges and view situations from various angles to better understand them.

A profile with such a personality demonstrates a great thirst for knowledge and understanding, which drives them to analyze problems in depth and propose original solutions.

For this reason, they are likely to excel in research fields, where their aptitude for finding innovative approaches is invaluable. In concrete terms, professions suited to objective analysts are those where specialized knowledge is necessary (neurology, higher education, economics, etc.).

The Determined Strategist (ENTJ)

Determined strategists are natural leaders who excel at organizing and directing complex projects. Assertive and results-oriented, they are capable of seeing the big picture and developing long-term strategies, making them effective managers.

People with this profile are often designated for leadership and management roles. These positions, given their sensitive nature, require genuine soft skills in terms of personality and leadership.

Among the 16 MBTI personality types, the determined strategist is the one capable of making strategic decisions with confidence and maintaining a clear roadmap for achieving objectives. They can build careers as administrative directors, budget analysts, or project managers.

The Enterprising Explorer (ENTP)

Among the 16 MBTI personality types, the enterprising explorer is perceived as a bold innovator who enjoys experimenting with new ideas and possibilities. They adapt easily to changes and have the ability to see opportunities in challenges.

For their fulfillment, careers that offer rapid growth and require autonomy, both in actions and in thinking, are ideal for them. Thus, careers suited to this personality include: lawyer, marketing director, financial planner.

The enterprising explorer also possesses the qualities needed to succeed in entrepreneurship and innovation.

The Diplomats

Among the 16 Myers Briggs Type Indicator personality types, diplomats are empathetic individuals who place great importance on human relationships.

The Perceptive Visionary (INFJ)

The perceptive visionary is an empathetic idealist who seeks to understand others and promote the common good. Intuitive and thoughtful, they are able to perceive the motivations and feelings of those around them.

Perceptive visionaries are also known for their long-term vision and their ability to inspire and advise others. The most fulfilling fields for them are psychology, social work, physiotherapy, massage therapy, etc.

The Caring Idealist (INFP)

Among the 16 Myers Briggs Type Indicator personality types, the caring idealist is the sensitive dreamer who always wants to live in alignment with their deep values.

Their ability to see potential in others and inspire personal growth makes them a passionate mentor and advocate.

Introspective and creative, the INFP personality is often motivated by a desire to make a positive difference in the world. Seeking creative solutions and eager to invest in noble causes, they place great importance on supporting others. Thus, the caring idealist can thrive as a museum curator, journalist, translator, or artist.

The Empathetic Mediator (ENFJ)

The empathetic mediator is, among the 16 personality types, the warm and charismatic leader who supports and motivates others. They perceive their needs and desires and provide solutions.

Empathetic mediators are also helpful, enthusiastic, and invested in harmony within their work environment. Professions suited to them include human resources administration, consulting, coaching, etc.

The Imaginative Guide (ENFP)

The imaginative guide is a free and creative spirit who seeks to explore new possibilities and inspire others. They see potential in every situation and present themselves as an inspiring facilitator and coach.

Innovative, energetic, and expressive, the imaginative guide (ENFP) is capable of envisioning multiple solutions to resolve problematic situations.

For their fulfillment, they can pursue a profession that nurtures their creativity and allows them to work with diverse people.

As such, they can evolve as an editor, advertising campaign director, or personal development coach.

The Sentinels

Practical and responsible, sentinels are concerned with security and stability. Among the 16 MBTI personality types, they are often perceived as reliable and methodical individuals, capable of maintaining order and following rules.

The Responsible Realist (ISTJ)

The responsible realist is an organized and meticulous person who relies on facts and concrete details. Often motivated by a sense of duty and responsibility, they fully commit to their tasks and strive to accomplish them with exemplary precision and rigor.

Generally, people with this personality operate according to well-defined objectives and work from factual data.

These personality traits in the workplace make them particularly apt to excel in the fields of management, administration, and justice, where their ability to organize and execute tasks with precision is highly valued.

The Pragmatic Supporter (ISFJ)

The pragmatic supporter, one of the most caring and devoted among the 16 personality types, drives them to invest in assisting and protecting others. Being a meticulous and caring individual, the person with this personality has the desire to preserve traditions and provide constant and reliable support.

Indeed, people with this personality type are very patient, full of common sense, loyal, and concerned about others, which steers them toward the fields of social assistance, management, and healthcare.

The Efficient Organizer (ESTJ)

The efficient organizer is a natural-born leader. A natural administrator and manager, they are able to make quick decisions, develop effective plans, and do everything necessary to achieve set objectives.

This profile stands out among the 16 MBTI personality types for their sense of responsibility and efficiency in everything they undertake. The results of a leadership test on this personality prove that they are capable of making decisions and appreciate being in a position of authority.

Their aptitudes often steer them toward careers in management and justice. Indeed, the efficient organizer can work as an IT systems manager or as an immigration and border services agent.

The Supportive Contributor (ESFJ)

The supportive contributor is a warm and sociable person who works to create a harmonious environment. They have the ability to perceive others' needs and provide practical support, thanks to their qualities as an effective counselor and mentor. Being among the best communicators of the 16 MBTI personality types, they appreciate well-structured procedures and a work environment where bonds between team members are warm. As such, they can find their path working as an optometrist, home economics advisor, or teaching assistant, among others.

The Explorers

Explorers are adventurous by nature, focusing on action and adaptability. Among the 16 personality types, they are known for their spontaneity and pragmatism.

The Logical Pragmatist (ISTP)

Observant, rational, and analytical, the logical pragmatist seeks to understand how things work and solve practical problems. They are considered a talented engineer, capable of reacting promptly and finding effective solutions.

Among the 16 MBTI personality types, they are the most apt to seize new opportunities while demonstrating logical pragmatism. They are naturally oriented toward analysis and the resolution of urgent situations, and their adaptability makes them an excellent candidate for careers as a pilot, mechanic, health standards inspector, etc.

The Versatile Companion (ISFP)

The versatile companion, introspective and adaptable by nature, is a creative soul. They perceive beauty in the smallest details of daily life and can easily adapt to changes.

They are one of the 16 MBTI personality types to demonstrate remarkable loyalty and a cooperative spirit. This character trait steers them toward careers where teamwork is essential and where each contribution is important for achieving a common goal. They can excel in the fields of archaeology, design, or working as a veterinarian, forest ranger, etc.

The Dynamic Problem-Solver (ESTP)

The dynamic problem-solver is an energetic and extroverted personality who focuses on action and results. Often driven by the desire to take on challenges and seize opportunities, they find innovative solutions in complex and demanding situations.

Thanks to their heightened analytical capacity, the dynamic problem-solver (ESTP) is, among the 16 MBTI personality types, the one most qualified to take and manage risks. They excel in several careers: paramedic, floor trader, entrepreneur, actor, etc.

The Enthusiastic Improviser (ESFP)

The enthusiastic improviser is a sociable and cheerful personality who loves to intensely experience the immediate moment and explore the present. They are also very spontaneous and often want to fully enjoy life and spread joy around them. Among the 16 MBTI personality types, the enthusiastic improviser is also a talented entertainer and communicator due to their remarkable ability to improvise. Thanks to their adaptability, they can thrive in work environments requiring high reactivity. This personality type particularly excels as a firefighter, flight attendant, special events organizer, tour guide, etc.

Controversies Surrounding the Use of MBTI in Recruitment

The MBTI, originally designed to analyze team dynamics, cannot on its own be considered a recruitment test. Its use in this field has sparked numerous controversies, as it does not clearly answer the question of whether a person is suited for a specific position. First, the test's reliability is questioned due to the variability of results. Indeed, the same person taking the test at two different times may obtain varying results.

This inconsistency raises doubts about the test's relevance for making important recruitment decisions. Moreover, the MBTI focuses on defining 16 personality types rather than on the concrete behavior of individuals. Thus, for many psychology experts, this personality test should not be used in recruitment, as it does not provide an accurate assessment of the skills required for a position. Furthermore, it is important to note that even if the test can provide valuable data about a candidate, it also carries the risk of eliminating more interesting profiles in terms of skills.

This underscores the need to implement more precise and reliable methods not only to evaluate candidates' skills and compatibility with specific roles, but also to ensure fairer and more effective selection processes.

The Big Five: A Model Better Suited to Professional Environments

Unlike the MBTI, the Big Five model (or OCEAN model) is based on decades of rigorous scientific research and offers a more nuanced personality assessment. This model measures five fundamental traits – Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism – on a continuum, which provides more precise and predictive results. In a professional context, the Big Five proves particularly useful for predicting concrete behaviors such as job performance, stress management, or compatibility with a company culture. It also stands out for its test-retest reliability and its applicability in cross-cultural contexts. At AssessFirst, we favor the Big Five because of its ability to provide clear and actionable insights about individuals' talents. By integrating this model into our solutions, we help companies identify profiles aligned with their strategic objectives and optimize collaboration within teams.

MBTI in Recruitment: Best Practices

Although the MBTI is not specifically designed to evaluate professional aptitudes or predict job performance, it can play a role in certain phases of the recruitment process. For example, it can be used to foster better mutual understanding between team members after hiring or to explore interpersonal dynamics. However, for strategic decisions such as choosing a candidate or evaluating the skills required for a position, scientifically proven tools like the Big Five are much more reliable. Indeed, the latter allows an in-depth analysis of actual behaviors and personality traits, thus offering precise and actionable data to optimize talent management decisions.

Key Takeaways About the 16 MBTI Personality Types

The MBTI defines 16 personality types divided into 4 categories: analysts, diplomats, sentinels, and explorers. Each of these categories groups individuals who share similar characteristics and approaches in their interactions with the world. Analysts are logical and strategic, while diplomats are empathetic and idealistic. Sentinels are practical and reliable, while explorers are spontaneous and adaptable. Understanding the 16 MBTI personality types divided across these 4 categories will be greatly useful for improving social interactions and group dynamics, as well as for creating a work environment where every individual can fully thrive.