ENTP: the Connoisseur & the Talent

How does the world see you? I'm reading "How the World Sees You" by Sally Hogshead. It's an interesting corollary to learn more about how the world sees us (as opposed to our personality type, which determines how we see the world). My personality type is ENTP - The Debater. My strengths (quick thinking, enjoy brainstorming, and am energetic) make sense when you consider my weaknesses (argumentative, insensitive, find it difficult to focus, and can dislike practical matters). But aside from energetic and argumentative, how does the world see me?

According to Sally, I am a Connoisseur and Talent, with prestige and passion being my primary and secondary advantages. I wasn't convinced at first; however, after reading more - and learning about my dormant (or weakest) advantage - I was sold. Sally was spot on - I HAVE NO MYSTIQUE! Here's how she puts it:

WHY USING MYSTIQUE FEELS LIKE QUICKSAND

You don’t hide your emotions or opinions. Some may even refer to you as an open book. You can be enthusiastic, even dramatic, at times. In business negotiations that require holding back information, you may tend to feel challenged, because containing how you feel typically is not a natural response for you.

You persuade others by being straightforward and open, whereas MYSTIQUE personalities persuade by provoking questions without giving answers. Your approachability is what attracts others to you, while MYSTIQUE’s veil of secrecy is what attracts people to them.

People can always know where they stand with you. Because you tend to have difficulty hiding how you feel, others can pick up on your attitude and mood.

Once you know your personality's dormant Advantage, you'll understand why these tasks feel like struggling through quicksand, and how to avoid spending your energy on those traps.

Nailed it. I wear my heart on my sleeve. You know how I feel.

One of my favorite takeaways from LinkedIn recently is the movement for people to embrace who they are - to genuinely share themselves (including weaknesses). So here it is - a summary of the good and an acknowledgment of the bad:

THE CONNOISSEUR'S TOP 5 SPECIALTY ADJECTIVES

1. INSIGHTFUL They communicate their ideas with clarity and conviction. You’ll find that they quickly obtain buy in from their audience – whether they’re “selling” their idea for a new project in a board meeting or launching a new loyalty program at a huge dealer conference. They’re confident, articulate, and sharp.

2. DISTINGUISHED They know how to choose the right style, approach, and words appropriate for each situation. They encourage a nervous interviewee. They are strict with a naughty child. They strike the right tone when lobbying the governor. They’re good communicators who meticulously prepare meetings.

3. IN-THE-KNOW They keep themselves informed on the latest industry trends, new business practices, and relevant news. You may find that they are sought-after speakers in their specialist area. A conference audience appreciates their expertise and vivid presentation style.

4. ADMIRED They’re respected for their knowledge, and they are highly valued for their sophistication. They prefer to excel in a limited number of things rather than spread themselves too thinly. They are competitive spirits who continuously strive to meet higher goals. They want to get better at what they do. They set high expectations.

5. WELL-GROOMED Their emotional intelligence makes them fascinating. You’ll find them at the center of attention at cocktail parties commenting on the latest news. At networking events and office parties, people naturally gravitate to them to listen to their opinions. Knowledgeable and passionate, they are good conversationalists.

But it's not all rainbows and unicorns. My "strengths" can also be overwhelming to people. I've been told I can have unrealistic expectations of not only myself but also those around me. I appreciate honest and constructive criticism and direct communication. It's OK to remind me that we are all different. Tell me if I'm overwhelming. Apparently, I can be pretty intense!

But don't just point out my flaws - please tell me how I can improve! How can I communicate in a way that helps you? That helps us achieve whatever we're working on together.

How does the world see you? Where do you shine? Where can you improve?

#ladylawyer #oilandgasunicorns #ENTP #theconnoisseur #thetalent #nomystique