What Temperament Is Your Boss?

The 4 linked articles deal with each type of the 4 temperaments, pointing out 3 key strengths for each type that you may not be aware of. If you don't know the personality type of your boss, here are a few things to look for that may point you in the right direction:

Guardian (SJ) bosses: Is your boss a stickler for following the rules? Do they take pride in being dependable? Do they prefer a structured environment, with well-understood roles, responsibilities, and a clear hierarchy? If so, your boss is likely a Guardian (and they're in good company, as Guardians make up more than 50% of managers in most U.S. corporations). Click here to learn more about the strengths of your Guardian Supervisor, Inspector, Provider, or Protector boss.

Rational (NT) bosses: Is your boss more concerned with the "big picture" than the details of your project? Do they tend to be a "hands-off" boss, sometimes even seeming stand-offish? Do they seem to not care about the way things "have always been done", looking for new ways even when the old way doesn't appear broken? If so, you likely have a Rational boss. Although Rationals are rare (less than 10% of the population) they are disproportionately represented in management in companies, especially as you go up the corporate ladder. Click here to learn more about the strengths of your Rational Fieldmarshal, Mastermind, Inventor, or Architect boss.

Artisan (SP) bosses: Is your boss an eternal optimist? Do they believe the next roll of the dice will be a winner? Are they at their best in a crisis? Do they get bored quickly with the details? Do they seem to have a lot of spontaneous ideas or plans of action? If you work in a sales or customer service department, you may be especially likely to have an Artisan boss. Click here to learn more about the strengths of your Artisan Promoter, Crafter, Performer, or Composer boss.

Idealist (NF) bosses: Is your boss most concerned with the well-being of the team and it's members? Do they pay sincere attention to each person's professional and personal development? Do they do their best to promote harmony and reduce conflict, eschewing competition amongst team members? Are they less concerned with details, but more interested in how "it all connects"? Idealist bosses are fairly rare in corporate environments, and most often gravitate to roles in employee and organizational development areas. If you work in human services organizations and non-profit agencies, you are much more likely to run across Idealist bosses. Click here to learn more about the strengths of your Idealist Teacher, Counselor, Champion, or Healer boss.