Personality tests can help make workplace stronger

In 1942, Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter, Isabel Briggs Myers, devised a personality inventory called the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Based on Carl Jung's theory of types, the purpose was to create an instrument that would help civilians choose wartime jobs well suited to their personality preferences. Today the test is widely used in the fields of education, business and psychology.

MBTI is now owned by Consulting Psychologists, Inc. (www.cpp.com). The company estimates that it tests more than two million people per year worldwide. Access to the test is tightly controlled. For valid outcomes, one should only take the test from an individual who is certified by Consulting Psychologists, Inc. to administer it.

In the library world, MBTI is often used with library staffs not only to help individuals realize their strengths, but also to help everyone in the organization to realize the strengths (and weaknesses) of everyone else. Taking the test results in a four-digit profile. There are 16 such profiles possible. If a friend was opposite you on the profile it would probably drive you crazy because he or she would operate completely differently from you.

For example, my profile reveals that I am a big picture person who can see and explain in broad strokes where we are going. But don't ask me the details of exactly when or how we're going to get there. The person opposite me is the detail person. I need this detail person, and she needs me, if we are going to be successful.

One of the best reasons for a group of people who work together to take the MBTI is to realize that together all strengths are covered. Really effective organizations employ and empower people in all 16 categories. Using the MBTI in a work setting also cultivates tolerance.

I have gradually come to appreciate the detail people, who find my typos and remind me that I have left out details. They keep me out of trouble and I prize their ability to be able to do this. In years past, I might have found it annoying.

Another such instrument is the Enneagram. Based on ancient teachings of mysterious origins, the Enneagam describes nine distinct types such as Reformer, Helper, Motivator, etc. Here's a link to a Web site listing all the types: www.9types.com.

The Enneagram test reveals a dominant energy or orientation that drives us in everything we do. Used correctly the energy is a gift; incorrectly it becomes a fault. For example, at best the Perfectionist has high standards and is very principled. On the other hand, the Perfectionist can be self-righteous, intolerant, dogmatic and inflexible.

Here's a Web site that offers a free Enneagram test: (www.enneagramcentral.com). Choose "Free Style Test" in the top left corner. After you take the test, the analysis pushes you to look at "wings," which are other Enneagram types for growth areas. Wings are important because they help you expand and round out your dominant strength.

When a work group takes a test such as MBTI or the Enneagram, tips and hints for dealing with all the types are shared. For example, if you want to motivate a Reformer, approach with a need. Realize that Reformers need time to process ideas; don't rush them. As bosses, Reformers want progress reports.

Want to know more about MBTI and the Enneagram? Look no further than the on-line Wikipedia (www.wikipedia.com) for a quick overview and even for further reading. Your library will also have additional book resources.