Workplace Habits
In the workplace, people with the ISFP personality type (Adventurers) seek out positions that give them enough freedom to express their zest for spontaneous actions and authentic emotional experiences. Button-down environments that revolve around tightly held traditions and strictly enforced procedures are unlikely to appeal to them. Spontaneous, charming, and genuinely fun people to be around, ISFPs just want a chance to express those natural qualities and to know that their efforts are appreciated.
ISFP Subordinates
People with the ISFP personality type generally prefer to receive orders over dishing them out. They aren’t well-known for their long-term focus, but their spontaneity and creativity help them add color and novel perspectives to the tasks they take on. Moreover, they are usually open-minded and willing to incorporate feedback. In order for them to really thrive, they need clearly defined goals coupled with personal autonomy and a supportive work environment.
If this balance can be made to work, ISFPs show themselves to be eager learners and passionate problem-solvers, especially if they get to deal one-on-one with other people or to tackle a problem solo. These personalities are humble, even shy, and unlikely to put themselves on the spot by volunteering their help. But they do love to feel appreciated, and if assigned a task, they work hard to earn that appreciation.
ISFP Colleagues
ISFPs feel most comfortable among their peers. Working with equals and giving some advice in order to solve practical problems is right where these personalities like to be. While they may exhaust themselves if their role requires an excessive amount of social interaction, they are otherwise quite charming and have excellent networking skills.
ISFPs are tolerant and friendly and usually just do what needs to be done regardless of whether their colleagues pull their own weight. Their supportive and caring nature makes them a comforting presence in stressful times. At the end of the day, though, ISFP personalities are sensitive and need to know that these efforts are appreciated in one way or another. It’s important for peers and superiors to provide feedback in a constructive, considerate manner.
ISFP Managers
The position that feels most unnatural to people with the ISFP personality type is management. They are not a domineering type and take no real joy in exerting control over others, planning long-term goals, or disciplining unsatisfactory behavior. But just because it feels a little strange doesn’t mean that they aren’t good at it.
Their sensitivity allows them to be great listeners, helping them to align their subordinates’ personal motivations with the task at hand. They also give their subordinates the freedom to do what needs to be done to solve what needs to be solved on any given day, and these personalities are likely to dig into that work right alongside them. This gives ISFP managers a marked style of inspiration and cooperation. They are usually well-liked.