How can you use personality assessments to identify your clients' ideal career paths?

One way I've applied this professionally is by integrating personality assessments into the coaching framework for career exploration and development. I had a client who was at a crossroads, unsure of which career path to pursue after a recent job loss. The personality assessment we used helped us identify not only his strengths and interests but also his values and work styles, offering a comprehensive view of what would make a career fulfilling for him. The personality assessment acted as a catalyst in this coaching relationship, making the process more efficient and the outcomes more targeted.

One of the hardest thing to do, at times, is to take a step back and look at ourselves from the outside. Personality assessments can be a great way to discover and understand some of our preferences, strengths, values etc. That said, personality assessments only give a picture of ourselves and should truly be used as a basis for discussion. What do i agree with? Where do I recognize myself? What resonates with me? And what doesn't? From that point on can we fully make those informed decisions on where we want to go.

In my experience, selecting the right personality assessment involves a careful evaluation of its purpose, reliability, and logistical factors. I typically start by clearly defining the goal—whether it's to identify strengths, values, or specific traits. Then, I look for assessments backed by strong scientific research, ensuring reliability and validity. I tend to favor online assessments for ease of access and quick turnaround on results. While assessments like MBTI and StrengthsFinder are popular and widely recognized, they often require a fee. So, cost becomes a factor, especially for clients on a budget. By considering these aspects, I aim to provide an assessment experience that is both insightful and practical for the client.

In my experience, preparing clients for a personality assessment is crucial for garnering meaningful results. I start by explaining the objectives, such as identifying strengths or aligning career goals, to establish context. I also discuss the limitations, emphasizing that the assessment is not an infallible measure of who they are but a tool for self-discovery and growth. Encouraging clients to answer spontaneously and honestly is key, so I suggest setting aside a quiet, uninterrupted time to complete the test. I make it clear that there are no 'right' or 'wrong' answers, aiming to reduce any anxiety they may have. This approach has helped clients engage thoughtfully with the assessment, leading to more accurate and beneficial outcomes.

I would start by saying that if you want to interpret a personality assessment, you should spend the time to get certified on it. Not only is it ethical to do so, but it also ensures you are clear about some of the subtleties behind each assessment. Too often do people think they know about the concepts but miss out on the depth. This becomes critical for clients to get the best experience during their debrief. The second element that makes the difference, in my experience, is to prepare the debrief while keeping a complete open-mind on what the client might perceive about themselves or be ready to focus on. It is a discussion, a discovery, and it should empower the client to take decisions on their growth.

In my experience, the debriefing session after a personality assessment is a pivotal moment for client self-awareness and goal-setting. I provide a detailed yet accessible report that outlines their personality traits, strengths, and areas for growth. It's crucial to address not just the positive aspects but also potential blind spots or conflicts that may arise in a work setting due to their personality type. This comprehensive review helps in strategizing actionable steps for career development, improved interpersonal relationships, and overall well-being. The objective is to empower clients to leverage this new self-knowledge in meaningful ways.

In my experience, utilizing personality assessment results for career planning is highly effective. Once we have a nuanced understanding of the client's personality, interests, and values, we explore career paths that align well with these facets. We compare options, weighing the pros and cons, to help the client make an informed choice that fits both their current situation and future aspirations. Next, we draft an actionable plan that outlines steps for reaching their career goals, breaking it down into manageable tasks. Offering continued support and guidance, I assist clients in navigating challenges and celebrating successes along their journey. This approach often results in more satisfying and sustainable career paths for clients.

This one is little bit tricky. First of all people don’t get an “ideal job.” Also you won’t know if a job is ideal even if you want be an entrepreneur or a job holder unless you live it. You may like it, you may not like it. There are people who after working for several decades realize that they are in a wrong job. In any “career path” you will come across people, environment, the nature of the job itself against your personality, values and beliefs. How much choices will you have? If you think there’s a career path for you, know thyself and adapt. Perhaps MBTI will help you as week as EI to know your strengths.