I’ve never been one to put much stock in a test that attempts to assign a value to a human being, specifically, personality tests. Summing up a person using a 15-minute multiple-choice seems pretty inane. I just never saw much reason to take a test that tells me what I’m like. I am what I am; deal with it. Then a while ago, a friend got me to take one, despite my many objections and constant griping. I hated the way every question was phrased, and attempted to rationally breakdown what it wanted to know and what was the right answer … which apparently is the exact wrong way to take this test. After I finished, she helped me score and apply the results to a rubric to discern my type.
I began reading a description of myself based on the test. Being a cynic, I was surprised at how specific and accurate it was.
The test I took is called MBTI (Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator). It is one of the most common personality tests out there. 1 in every 5 Fortune 1000 companies use it in their hiring process. In fact, as of last year 89 out of 100 Forbes Fortune 100 companies use it in their interviewing process, and the results may directly impact getting the job. The test was created by a mother-daughter duo who had a special interest in personality. Katherine Cook Briggs and her daughter, Isabel Briggs Meyers, began their research into personality in the early 1900s. It culminated with publishing the test in 1944 with the hope that it could determine what sort of war-time jobs best fit women.
It works by assigning 1 of 2 letters in four different functions. The combination of these four letters will tell you your type. They are (E)xtraverion/(I)ntroversion, (S)ensing/i(N)tuitive, (T)hinking/(F)eeling, (J)udging/(P)erceiving. There are 16 types possible based on the combination of these functions, all with strengths and weaknesses.
Over the years, different people have tweaked the test to their liking, leading to numerous variations. Here is an example you can check out. It’s free and takes about 15 minutes.
On the fateful day that I took the test I found out I was an INTP. So, whether you’re interested in what the test has to say about you, or you’re bored, take the test find out your type!