We meet all sorts in our daily lives: role models, free spirits, introverts, extroverts – the list goes on! These unique blends of thinking, feeling, and behaving make up each person’s ‘personality’.
Personality refers to ‘individual differences in patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving’. Understanding these differences can help identify individual traits and maximize their potential and productivity at the workplace.
Finding the right fit for your team isn’t just about skills and abilities anymore. Today’s organizations value culture and collaboration, seeking employees who resonate with their values and can navigate the ever-changing business landscape. That’s why employability tests based on personality psychology are gaining traction.
These assessments, drawn from tried-and-true personality models, go beyond skills and delve into mindset and behaviour. They help companies find the perfect fit: individuals who not only have the technical know-how but also thrive within their unique culture.
Let’s dive deeper into understanding these individual nuances with the help of the popular “Big Five” personality framework.
Understanding The Big Five Personality Framework
In understanding human behaviour, few frameworks hold such weight as the Big Five personality model. This widely recognized model delves into the fundamental dimensions of personality, offering insights into who we are and how we interact with the world. The Big Five allows us to quantify and compare individual traits, providing valuable information in various contexts.
The Big Five, often remembered through the mnemonic OCEAN, categorizes personality into five core dimensions:
Openness to Experience
Openness to experience refers to the desire to explore new things. It’s how we make sense of the world around us, always eager to explore beyond the familiar. Those high on this trait are like sponges for fresh ideas, embracing change with open arms. They’re creative thinkers, brimming with imagination and always ready to paint outside the lines.
On the other hand, individuals lower in openness prefer tried-and-true methods. They stick to what works, valuing rigid routines and concrete facts. Artistic sensitivity might not be their strong suit, and they are inclined towards facts and figures more.
Conscientiousness
Consciousness is associated with being organized and committed. Conscientious individuals are meticulous planners, always mindful of deadlines and obligations. Think of detailed to-do lists and immaculate workspaces. Their commitment shines through in everything they do, from finishing tasks flawlessly to taking ownership of their actions.
High-conscientiousness individuals are also sharp situational navigators. They tune into the vibes of the moment, adapting their approach to fit the situation. They are seen as the perfect team players (often your best hires!), as they know exactly what to prioritize and act on.
Studies have shown that among the five personality traits, conscientiousness is acknowledged as the strongest critical determinant of individual desirable behaviours and outcomes across various occupations.
Extraversion
Extraversion describes how one interacts with their social environment – the way they express their emotions and how at ease they are in their surroundings. These folks light up any room they enter, radiating energy and charm. They’re social butterflies, effortlessly sparking conversations and drawing people in with their infectious enthusiasm. Think laughter, storytelling, and always being ready for the next adventure.
But it’s not just about being loud and bubbly. High-extraverts are also skilled communicators, expressing themselves clearly and connecting with others on a deeper level. They’re comfortable in their own skin and confident in their interactions, making them natural leaders and team players. The kind you would love to have in your sales team or as your project manager!
On the other hand, those who score lower on extraversion might prefer quieter havens, finding their energy in solitude or smaller groups. They’re not anti-social but recharge differently, drawing strength from introspective moments and deep connections. Not a bad thing at all. Francesca Gino, a behavioural scientist, stated that individuals who score low in Extraversion make great leaders – especially when they have an active workforce. Now you know what else to look for in your subsequent leadership hiring!
Agreeableness
Agreeable people are more prosocial. They prize getting along, showering others with affection, and always seeking common ground. They’re natural collaborators, praised for their willingness to compromise and build bridges. But while their agreeableness earns them kudos, it can sometimes hold them back. When faced with decisions demanding a firm, rational hand, those high in agreeableness might struggle to hold their ground.
According to a study on the influence of agreeableness on job outcomes, agreeableness can function as a component of a skill set that directly enhances job performance and productivity in organizations. Agreeable individuals naturally excel at collaboration and team dynamics. They’re masters of compromise, fostering harmony and building trust. This translates to smoother workflows, better communication, and ultimately, more efficient teams that get things done.
Neuroticism
The term “neurotic” characterizes an individual’s overall emotional stability and temperament. In the Big Five personality model, neuroticism indicates a person’s inclination toward negative emotions and a less stable temperament. Individuals with high scores on this trait frequently experience anxiety, sadness, and worry, coupled with low self-esteem. They may exhibit self-consciousness and uncertainty, often displaying temperamental outbursts or quick irritation.
In uncertain circumstances, emotionally stable people show good composure and are sure of themselves. Neuroticism, however, is not necessarily a ‘negative’ trait. When it comes to their interpersonal relationships or their jobs, neurotic people frequently are aware of potential consequences, risks, or upsets. They’ll put in a tremendous amount of effort, even in the absence of an external reward that has been promised, to avoid any threats they can see.
Those on the low end of the neuroticism spectrum, on the other hand, wear a different emotional coat. They navigate life with a calmer, more resilient disposition, less prone to intense anxieties or emotional fluctuations. This emotional stability allows them to approach challenges with a clear head and steady nerves, often excelling in situations demanding composure and focus.
PerspectAI & The Big Five Personality Framework
The Big Five personality model paints a vivid picture of an individual, but how does this translate to the workplace? For managers and recruiters, it’s time to move beyond resumes and delve into potential by understanding how these traits manifest in professional settings.
Every orchestra needs its own unique blend. A high-pressure sales team might value openness and extraversion, while a research lab might prioritize conscientiousness and introversion.
That’s where PerspectAI comes in. Our personality test, built on the robust Big Five personality framework, helps you uncover the hidden potential in every candidate. We go beyond resumes and interviews, revealing the strengths and preferences that truly predict success in your specific environment.
Schedule a demo with us and discover how our Big Five-powered modules translate personality & motives into peak performance.
