How Personality Shapes Leadership Styles in the Workplace

Introduction

There is no single "leader personality." Steve Jobs (likely ENTJ) led differently than Gandhi (likely INFJ). Your personality dictates how you lead, not if you can lead.

Common Leadership Archetypes

1. The Visionary (High Openness)

Style: Inspiring, big-picture, innovative. They paint a picture of the future.

Pitfall: Can ignore practical details or change direction too often.

2. The Operator (High Conscientiousness)

Style: Structured, reliable, efficient. They ensure the trains run on time.

Pitfall: Can be rigid and micromanage creativity.

3. The Coach (High Agreeableness)

Style: People-focused, supportive, democratic. They build strong teams.

Pitfall: Can struggle to give tough feedback or make unpopular decisions.

4. The Driver (High Extraversion/Assertiveness)

Style: Action-oriented, bold, decisive. They push through obstacles.

Pitfall: Can steamroll others and ignore burnout risks.