About the MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator)

The MBTI provides a positive and constructive way of understanding and valuing differences between people. All to often it is badly delivered and even abused, Martin's understanding of its depth and origins makes it more benificial.

The MBTI is the world’s leading indicator of personal styles. It is a questionnaire that is used to capture fundamental differences between people; the frameworks it employs for doing this is elegant and easy to apply in a range of occupational and non-work settings.

The questionnaire is scored to identify a person’s preferences. These are assessed in four main areas and the particular combination of preferences for an individual constitutes their MBTI type. For instance, the MBTI contrasts a person’s preference for focusing on detailed facts and practicalities against looking at patterns and less tangible possibilities. In addition, it explores differences between those preferring to reach decisions in an objective manner and those preferring to use a more empathic approach, based on personal values.

The MBTI has broad practical application in organisations, including: developing effective teams; developing managerial potential; improving communication and resolving conflict. It is also used extensively in educational, career guidance and counselling settings.

How the MBTI is used

Some of the more common applications are described below:

Developing Leadership Potential
Self-awareness is fundamental to good leadership. An understanding of the impact that personal style has on people’s motivation and commitment is essential. The MBTI helps managers assess their strengths, their preferred style of problem solving and also how their style relates to other people’s styles, particularly those that are different from their own.

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