As a team, we tend to look at others skills and who we connect with as those we gravitate towards. There are people that you like, and others that you just don’t prefer as much for whatever reason. Many can be misunderstood by their peers and have a hard time fitting in. One of the best ways to understand a person is to know their personality type along with the traits and weaknesses that go along with each one. Below we will discuss the three major personality types and how to connect with your co-workers according to personality.

Extrovert

A person with an extroverted personality type tends to be the life of the party an center of attention. They thrive on the energies of others so social interaction is extremely important to them. Strengths in the workplace tend to be great customer service, connecting well with co-workers and having an overall positive attitude. Weaknesses tend to be allowing social time to get in the way of work, distracting others by being overly talkative, and trouble with detail oriented projects. If you have an extroverted personality, you may need to assess your behavior in the workplace to see if you’ve become a distraction to your co-workers. Often if there is a co-worker that does not like you, it is because they misunderstand your positive attitude and assertiveness as being pushy or coming on too strong. This could be viewed as rude or abrasive to someone that has a less approachable demeanor.

If you are having these types of issues with co-workers, try talking with them and understanding their point of view. You may need to adjust how you interact with them in order to make them feel more comfortable. You have a very inclusive personality type which is a good thing. However, there are others that simply do not appreciate the spotlight in the same way. Your best option is to recognize when someone says they are uncomfortable and allow them the space they need.

Introvert

Introverted personality types tend to be quiet and focused. They thrive off of solitude so it takes a genuine effort to socialize with others. A person with an introverted personality type are usually very nice, but can come off to others as rude because they are less likely to accept an invitation out with the group and will likely stand off to the side to avoid interaction at the office birthday party in the break room. Often they enjoy working alone or in small groups. They are very detail oriented and tend to be overthinkers. Strengths in the workplace tend to be meeting deadlines, getting work done at a high level and excelling in small group projects. Weaknesses tend to be that they may have trouble knowing how to connect with co-workers on a social basis. Many introverts are misunderstood as rude or standoff-ish because they do not go out of their way to engage with others.

If this has become an issue in your office, try sending an email or talking to your co-workers one on one to explain how you feel. Let them know that large groups and social interactions are hard for you but you are trying and really do like being apart of the team. This will help others understand your perspective and not assume you have an attitude towards them.

Ambivert

An ambivert is a mixture of both extrovert and introvert personalities. They can be incredibly social and outgoing at times and withdrawn and quiet at other times. They tend to have the ability to adjust their attitude according to the room. So if the workplace environment tends to be more quiet and reserved, they can tone it own and blend in as well and turn it up of the workplace environment is more light-hearted and fun. Strengths in the workplace tend to be that they can have the best of both worlds, being detail oriented, focused and also carry a social relationship with everyone in the office. They are often very likeable and helpful. Weaknesses tend to be they can change attitude and behavior at the drop of a hat. If they are having a bad day, they can be withdrawn and quiet. Ambiverts are often misunderstood by co-workers as moody in unpredictable.

If you find this is an issue for you, try letting your co-workers know how you are feeling ahead of time. If you’re having a bad day or need some space, let everyone know so they don’t misunderstand you as being mad or upset.

Personality type plays a large role in how we interact with each other within the workplace. It may come natural to some to be a social team player while others genuinely must work on it. Help create a peaceful environment by recognizing how you fit into your team according to your personality type and help others do the same.