We informally are gauging the personality of ourselves and others every single day. In a similar, yet much more systemic and scientific manner, psychologists utilizing psychometrics aim to better understand the way in which individuals respond to various situations based on their personality type. 

There are two basic types of personality tests: self-report inventories and projective tests.

Self-report inventories are a kind of objective test used to assess personality. They typically use multiple-choice items or numbered scales, which represent a range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).

Projective tests generally involve presenting the test-taker with a vague scene, object, or scenario and then asking them to give their interpretation of the test item. One well-known example of a projective test is the Rorschach Inkblot Test.

Quote: We cannot safely assume that other people's minds work on the same principles as our own. All too often, others with whom we come in contact do not reason as we reason, or do not value the things we value, or are not interested in what interests us. – Isabel Briggs Myers

Have you ever heard someone refer to themselves as an INFJ or an ESTJ and wondered what those random letters could mean? It’s not a secret cheat code to a video game . . . What these people are describing to is their personality type based on the Myers Briggs Type Indicator.

16Personalities.COM, which offers a free MTBI based personality test, breaks down the results into four categories of personalities: Analysts, Diplomats, Sentinels and Explorers! 

Analysts are Intuitive (N) and Thinking (T) personality types, known for their rationality, impartiality, and intellectual excellence. Diplomats are Intuitive (N) and Feeling (F) personality types, known for their empathy, diplomatic skills, and passionate idealism. Sentinels are Observant (S) and Judging (J) personality types, known for their practicality and focus on order, security, and stability. Explorers are Observant (S) and Prospecting (P) personality types, known for their spontaneity, ingenuity, and flexibility.

NOT all personality tests are created equal. When it comes to examining the validity, accuracy, and reliability of personality tests, some have better psychometric properties than others. 

Still, I’m a firm believer that personality tests can have a positive impact on your personal and professional progression. Really, it’s a relatively easy way to become more aware of yourself and have a higher EQ as it relates to your level of emotional intelligence.

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