What is the MBTI?
The MBTI is the world’s most popular psychological instrument. It has been continually developed and updated for over 50 years. Currently over 50 million people have taken it and every year more than 3 million people complete the instrument in one of the several languages it is available in.
The instrument is based on the Swiss Psychologist Carl Jung’s theory of psychological type which very basically put states those differences in behaviour result from our natural tendency to use our mind in different ways and as we develop patterns of behaviour we further reinforce them. Through his study of people he developed the first three of the four psychological preferences that are used today on the MBTI. Myers and Briggs added on the fourth after considerably studying Jung’s work and re-assesing their own observations.
How can the MBTI help our business?
In the organisational arena, the most common uses for the MBTI are supporting :
- Leadership development
- Team development
- Conflict management
- Improving communication
- Managing change
- Recognising and managing stress
- Coaching
- Decision making
What is the benefit of using the MBTI?
The MBTI is an underused tool to develop organisational performance. It can be used at a team, departmental or organisation wide setting. The MBTI tool:
- Is reliable, valid, cost effective and easy to use (via web or self administering with pen & paper).
- Offers a well developed logical model that is consistent with human behaviour.
- Reduces inter-personal conflict through applying an objective, rational framework.
- Emphasizes the need for and value of diversity.
- Identifies the assets and blind spots of individuals, teams and organisational units.
- Helps to develop a clearer understanding of the organisational culture or character
- Helps people clarify the fit between their work role and their personal preferences.
- Can only be administered following strict ethical guidelines by qualified people.
What is the benefit to the individuals taking the MBTI?
The MBTI can be used to enhance personal productivity and relations. Is can be used to support career counselling and coaching. The MBTI tool:
- Helps understand oneself better
- Provides support for understanding the reason why we have conflict with others.
- Shows how our differenced from those around us can provide a strong bond.
- Helps people clarify their work and personal preferences.
- Helps improve communication.
- Helps reduce conflict and stress by offering a neutral language.
- Provides insights for improving motivation and restoring vitality.
Andi Roberts an administer MBTI for a one off individual feedback session, multiple sessions or group feedback coaching.