Something for the weekend: A new study from HR, payroll, workforce management and culture solutions provider UKG has identified the five personality types of UK employees and their favoured communication methods. If you have ever wanted to know if you’re a Nelson Mandela or a Steve Jobs at work, then read on.
UKG surveyed 2,000 UK full-time workers, including C-suite and people managers. Using a behavioural psychologist, it determined the five key personality types, their traits and working styles and how they like to communicate.
A total of 21% of employees surveyed were identified as the negotiator personality type, as seen in Nelson Mandela. With a reputation for being reliable, down-to-earth, easy-going and supportive, their presence within teams is a useful source of diplomatic and measured contributions.
For thinkers, such as Mark Zuckerberg and Bill Gates, clearly defined processes work best for communication and all feedback should be clear, detailed and actionable. They welcome flexibility and prefer freedom to choose when they work collaboratively and independently.
The visionaries, such as Steve Jobs and James Dyson, channel energy into discovering new ideas, possibilities and solutions to problems. This personality type welcomes all types of feedback and communication, preferring one-to-one meetings and appraisals that allow for back and forth discussion on the best course of action.
The least common personality type is the go getter group, who are outgoing, energetic and competitive. They prefer communication that is short and to the point, and via instant messaging platforms where possible. An example of a celebrity go getter is Michael Jordan.
Claire Lock, vice president, HR international markets at UKG, said: “While many people managers may already be aware of the different traits and personalities within their teams, it can sometimes be challenging to adapt certain workplace policies to suit everyone. They must adapt their methods to ensure they are getting the best out of every employee.
“Our findings can help managers with the methods in which they communicate with team members, which working environments support their development best and how they prefer to receive feedback. These insights can equip managers with the tools they need to get the best out of each and every member of their team, no matter what personality type they are.”
Communication is vital within teams and organisations and everyone is different, so it is worth bearing these varying styles and preferences in mind!