ESFP: Extravert-Sensor-Feeler-Perceiver
- Extraverts are outgoing, energetic and action-oriented. They are enthusiastic and expressive
- Sensors live in the present. They rely on facts, handle practical matters well and like things to be concrete and measurable.
- Feelers let their feelings and emotions play a leading role because of their concern for other people.
- Perceivers prefer a lifestyle that is spontaneous, flexible and adaptable. They like an environment that is unstructured, and like to keep their options open.
An ESFP at a glance
ESFPs are fun and delightful to be with. They live for the moment, and know how to make the most of each moment. Good Cheer, Good Friends, Good Times could well describe their philosophy of life.
An ESFP approaches life optimistically. They see the world as it is and approach it with curiosity. They have the ability to adapt to whatever life may send their way.
ESFPs want to make an impact in life, make a difference and do something meaningful. They have a need to carry people along with them and motivate them to be more positive, optimistic and enthusiastic. When ESFPs are around, people certainly believe that the glass is half full rather than half empty!
ESFPs are cool in a crisis. They thrive on action. They get a kick from the challenge of handling unknown situations, moment-by-moment. Their zeal, love for life and sense of playfulness means that the people around them had better be ready for a lot of spontaneous action. People see an ESFP as being warm and witty.
Their probable contributions to an organization
Each personality type has a different set of skills, talents and attributes that they bring to an organization, group or relationship. Here is a list of those most commonly associated with personality types like ESFP.
- Is courageous, creative and likes to be where the action is.
- Loves life and exciting challenges.
- Is enthusiastic, vivacious and keenly attuned to his/her environment.
On a team
Some people work well on teams, others work best on their own. Understanding the personality types of team members provides information about how individuals are likely to carry out their work and interact with each other. Given the personality preferences of an ESFP, the following are the strengths (and possible weaknesses!) they will most likely bring to a team:
- Entertains, breaks the ice and keeps others inspired and working through his/her excitement.
- Builds morale and an esprit de corps.
- Enthusiastically invites everyone to participate and join together.
ESFP leadership style
Each personality type has its own leadership style, strengths and blind spots. The following highlights an ESFP approach to leadership, provides clues as to how an ESFP will act in a leader role, and pinpoints some of the leadership qualities.
- Patterns him/herself after other successful leaders.
- Works hard and efficiently to accomplish stated goals.
- Delegates once the situation is under control, with all available facts and figures.
