When did you last take a personality assessment? I ask this question a lot! The typical responses:
We did one of those for work.
I think I did the one with the letters.
It’s been awhile…..
The gist: most people have taken a personality assessment at some point, but haven’t internalized the results in a professionally beneficial way. You may or may not recall the findings, and if you took an assessment at work or for work, the results were filed away and likely never utilized. If you took one for fun, you may not realize how helpful the results can be in the workplace.
As I started to write this post, I was feeling compelled to cover several topics related to personality assessments and how to put them to good use (both as an employee and employer). Before I get to those, which I’ll do in future writing, I’ll offer the most useful and universal personality assessments you could take today. Most of these will cost money, but do consider these investments, not cost. As corny as it may be to hear this, the value you gain from the information sitting inside these assessments outweighs the dollars spent!
In no particular order:
Myers-Briggs is one of the most respected assessments. (While there are some very close similarities, please do NOT take 16 Personalities in lieu of Myers-Briggs).
Investment: $49.95
Clifton StrengthsFinder is another widely accepted assessment (I find more value in this one!)
Investment: $49.99 (take the CliftonStrengths 34)
Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment
Enneagram has certainly gained popularity in recent years. I do find people labeling themselves with their Enneagram numbers, in a zodiac-symbol kind of way, so overall not respected as much as the first two; but, because it’s gained popularity, this is a good one to do in addition to others.
Investment: $12 (it’s called RHETI, or Riso-Hudson Enneagram Type Indicator)
DiSC is one I hear about from time to time, often issued when someone first starts a new job. I like how results are presented, but because it’s not as common as the others, would reserve this for those who geek out on taking these!
Investment: $72
The Four Tendencies is probably not on your radar. Best-selling author, Gretchen Rubin designed this assessment a few years ago. It’s simple, insightful in way different than the ones above, and is FREE!
Investment: it’s FREE
The Four Tendencies assessment
In my next writing on this subject I’ll cover what to do with what you’ve learned about yourself. A tease: it involves talking with others about you and what you’re all about!
-Elizabeth