Personality differences drive behavior. When you understand the abilities and needs of others in the workplace, you can take steps to improve communication, foster engagement and lead more effectively. Understanding common personality types can also help you realize a higher level of self-awareness so you can look at issues more objectively, enhance your relationships with your co-workers and create a more harmonious culture.
According to temperament theory, the four common personality types can be color-coded for easy reference. Orange and Gold personalities are the most widespread personality types, while Blue and Green are less frequent. Below are the four personality types and tips for effective interaction:
- Orange – Action-Orientated
- Gold – Organized
- Green – Analytical
- Blue – Relationship-Oriented
Orange Personality Types
Action-Oriented Orange personality types look for adventure and fun at home and in the workplace. They are hands-on learners who are typically quick-witted, innovative and playful. Orange types will use their charming personality to become natural negotiators. They are competitive risk-takers who can sometimes be impulsive in their actions. Orange personalities cheer others on to achieve success and they love tangible rewards for their efforts. To perform well, Orange personality types need freedom and mobility.
Tips for Interacting with Orange Personality Types
If Orange personality types become angry or defiant, co-workers can inject some humor into the situation to get them back on track emotionally. Managers can give them the opportunity to lead and recognize them for a job well done.
Gold Personality Types
Organized Gold personality types are extremely detail-oriented, practical and precise. Managers appreciate Gold personalities for their strong work ethic, and co-workers can count on them to follow the rules and complete their tasks on time. To perform well, Gold personalities need to feel prepared for their responsibilities. They like to start off with a realistic plan so they can enjoy a sense of completion when they finish the task.
Tips for Interacting with Gold Personality Types
If Gold personality types become worried that things are not going well, they may become authoritarian in an attempt to take charge and improve the situation. Providing clear directions and allowing them alone time to think things through and come up with another plan can help.
Green Personality Types
Green personality types are highly analytical and curious about the world. They are logical thinkers who like to see the big picture and sometimes come across as intellectual. Green personalities hate repetition and redundancy. They are often the creative problem solvers in the organization. To perform well, Green personalities need the freedom to think independently.
Tips for Interacting with Green Personality Types
It is sometimes hard to figure out if Green personality types are silent because they are so focused on the task at hand, or if they have become detached. If Green personality types are disengaged they need the opportunity to ask questions and the time to reflect on possibilities to solve the problem. Green personalities have to understand the rationale behind the situation, so it is important to explain “why.”
Blue Personality Types
Blue personality types are extremely relationship-oriented. They crave harmony in the workplace and they appreciate the opportunity to connect with others in teams. Blue personality types value friendships and they are genuinely caring. To perform well, Blue personality types need to find acceptance within the group and enjoy a feeling of belonging. In fact, they are happiest when everyone gets along with each other.
Tips for Interacting with Blue Personality Types
If a normally friendly Blue personality type becomes quiet and withdrawn, something is wrong. To help Blue personalities regain their naturally happy nature, provide comfort by listening to their concerns and reassuring them by offering support. Co-workers can help by showing that they care and by voicing appreciation for their efforts.
Understanding Personality Differences in the Workplace
Revealing the character traits of the four common personality types can help people communicate better in the workplace. By understanding your own personality color type you can heighten self-awareness, a key leadership skill. At True Colors, we help organizations create a culture of success where every employee feels understood and empowered. True Colors drives positive change in organizations around the world by encouraging leaders and staff to embrace individual personality differences. We use personality tests based on proven temperament theory to teach leaders and co-workers personal awareness for improved communication, engagement, collaboration and productivity.
When you partner with True Colors, an experienced Master Trainer will help evaluate your needs and set realistic, achievable goals. We help your organization thrive by implementing programs that meet challenges in leadership, team building and conflict. Our customized programs include online personality testing, consulting sessions, workshops, live events and keynote speaking engagements.
For additional information about True Colors International and Advanced Certification in Selling, please visit http://truecolorsintl.com or call 800-422-4686.
