INTJs in the workplace
What is the working style of INTJs?
The working style of INTJs is consistent, innovative, and focused on problem-solving.
In many ways, INTJ personality types possess all the characteristics of an ideal employee: diligence, focus, confidence, and high efficiency. They rarely get sidetracked at work and aren’t the type to spend most of their hours chatting with other colleagues. In fact, they usually prefer to be left alone.
That said, their unconventionality can be a double-edged sword. While they bring novel ideas to the table, they also struggle to accept that sometimes tried-and-true solutions work best. This may cause strife between them and their employers, especially if INTJs refuse to back down.
3 tips for excelling in the workplace as an INTJ
Tip #1
Build a good rapport with colleagues. Even though INTJs rarely show interest in their colleagues, a little effort goes a long way. Nurturing good relationships with coworkers can give their career a boost.
Tip #2
Avoid striving for perfection. INTJs are perfectionists to the core, but instead of chasing the unattainable, they should acknowledge their progress. That way, they won’t be stuck on one task way past the deadline.
Tip #3
Accept some tried-and-true solutions. Although INTJs need to constantly improve and perfect existing systems, there's nothing wrong with relying on what’s already in place sometimes.
What are INTJs like in networking scenarios?
In networking scenarios, INTJs tend to be withdrawn, participating in the conversation only when they have to.
Although they understand the importance of building connections with their coworkers, this doesn’t come naturally to them—especially because networking involves a lot of small talk. This is generally off-putting to INTJs, who prefer to avoid these events whenever possible.
What are INTJs like as leaders?
As leaders, INTJs are demanding yet fair, preferring to treat their subordinates as equals. They prioritize efficiency and develop clear and concrete strategies that utilize their employees’ strengths to their utmost potential.
Furthermore, INTJs never ask their employees to pander to them in any way—all they care about is achieving specific goals, even if it means entirely disregarding the company’s hierarchy.
What are INTJs like in teams?
INTJs would much rather work alone, but their strengths can be invaluable in teamwork. Their strategic thinking and innovative approach often have a great impact on the whole team, improving its overall efficiency and output.
However, INTJs can also quickly lose patience and respect for colleagues who can’t keep up or don’t contribute enough. Similarly, they can clash with less innovative team members who prefer to do things by the book.