Successful managers find creative ways to keep their team engaged. Studies show that managers have a substantial impact on employee performance and often determine the degree of engagement their staff achieves. Such a significant role requires that managers learn how to create optimal interactions among different employee personality types as part of the effort to boost engagement.

Personality Matters

People differ in many ways which explains why so many challenges exist in the typical work environment. Interpersonal conflicts often occur, resulting in increased stress levels and varying levels of satisfaction and engagement. As part of their job, managers must avoid the temptation to interact with every employee in the same way and adapt their motivational tactics to each personality type. While some can take open and blunt criticism without offense, others may prefer a softer form of feedback. One channel of communication will never fit every employee just right. Those in leadership positions should invest their time in learning how those on their team function. As relationships are strengthened, communication will be easier to come by.

Getting Started

Managers should select a reliable personality test for their employees to complete. The results will help workers understand themselves and give management the necessary insight on how to motivate the entire team. In settings where the administration of such a test seems impossible, managers can still learn about personality differences by reading books, searching online, or even acquiring a behavior specialist certification. Every office has five different personality types that managers and team leads can use to bring productivity and engagement to unprecedented levels.

Five Personality Types

#1  The Extrovert

The outgoing personality of extroverts exude energy and thrive on working and brainstorming with their teams. Such employees desire high levels of interaction with their coworkers that can result in increased productivity but can irritate others in the process. They will often take the lead in team projects by delegating and implementing ideas. Team unity is likely important to your extroverted employee. Allow time for relationship strengthening activities.

#2  The Introvert

These individuals like to work by themselves and often fail to share their thoughts and feedback with their team. Introverted employees think a lot and approach productivity from a different perspective than their more extroverted teammates. Although the introvert may appear to be shy and reserved, in reality they have a multitude of ideas to share. Learn to tap into their space and give them a platform to express their ideas and concerns.

#3  The Structured

Those with structured personalities have ambition and discipline, and they favor the use of lists and schedules to maintain progress and complete tasks in time. They have a hard time deviating from plans and may struggle with sudden changes in workload responsibilities. Give them plenty of notice to prepare for any changes to their workload or company policy.

#4  The Perceptive

Perceptive employees have open minds and the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and requirements. Unlike many of their counterparts who depend on a rigid structure to get things done, perceptive personalities handle unpredictable situations well. They are not only well equipped to take on any task you spring on them, they enjoy the spontaneity.

#5  The Analytical

Employees that approach their work from a rational and objective perspective have analytical personalities. Paying attention to details helps them get their job done well while always acquiring knowledge and skills that will help them interpret their environment correctly.

Consider all your employees and categorize them according to the above five personality types. Next, consciously adapt your leadership and motivational strategies to personalize and optimize your interactions with each of your team members. Don’t stop learning about each employee trait, and use your knowledge to get the best possible results from your staff.