Individuals who have an ESTP (Extroversion, Sensing, Thinking, Perception) personality type typically make a significant and long-lasting impression on those around them. They always seem to be surrounded by others and attract loyal followers. Shining as the center of attention, this personality type loves to laugh, entertain, and socialize.
According to the Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator, the “tycoon” is probably popular. In fact, ESTPs are probably always surrounded by people, who follow every action and listen to every word. Natural entertainers, with a love of humor, people with an ESTP personality may also be blunt. They are not afraid of experiencing life, and their willingness to act before thinking can cause problems. However, their intelligence and proactive nature prepare them for nearly any situation. ESTPs are at risk of hurting others and themselves through their impulsiveness and precarious actions. While these characteristics can be dangerous, they also make people with this personality type colorful, lively, and principled.
Professional Qualities
Only 4 percent of the general population has this personality type, so they often stand out. ESTPs tend to perform well in the work environment, because they love challenges. They are equally passionate about sharing these conquests with others. ESTP workers tend to be animated, unpredictable, fun-loving individuals, who can come across as crass to their co-workers and employers. A strong asset of ESTPs is that they are adaptable and flexible, which bodes well in the workplace. They have an uncanny ability to make any situation interesting. These individuals are known for spontaneity, improvisation, problem-solving, and quick thinking.
ESTPs do not like rules, restrictions, and limitations. They hate having to check in with their supervisors. When they feel confined, they become frustrated. Their frustration also appears when co-workers or supervisors do not perform to their standards. They are not especially emotional, which may lead to their seeming insensitive.
ESTPs prefer jobs that utilize their skills and traits, such as spontaneity, ability to think on their feet, and creativity. They like jobs where there is some type of action. They do not like jobs that are routine or repetitive. ESTPs are social beings, so they like to be around other people—networking and socializing. They also like to solve problems, and conquer challenges. ESTPs excel at jobs like sales, marketing, business negotiations, acting, singing, freelance jobs, writing, entrepreneurship, coaching, and athletics.
Relationship Qualities
When it comes to romantic relationships, ESTPs are not too concerned with planning out serious relationships. They enjoy spontaneity, fun, and excitement. They like surprises, especially delivering them to others, and they live in the present—not in the past and definitely not in the future. Therefore, they do not spend much time thinking about what the future with their partners might bring. However, their energy and unpredictability make them attractive to others. Their willingness to have fun and live boldly helps their partners to become more vivacious.
When it comes to friendships, ESTPs tend to be the life of the party. They have an insatiable imagination and an exhilarating sense of spontaneity. These individuals love to explore theories and ideas, which means an exciting activity is never far behind. Their attitudes toward friends are open and laid-back.
As parents, ESTPs can be considered excellent parents. They are typically playful, adaptable, empathetic, flexible, and easy-going. These parents truly enjoy spending time with their children—watching them grow and mature into competent adults. With these parents, their children and their friends, of course, always have a good time. Moreover, they encourage their children’s curiosity and sense of wonder. One of their strengths is that they are hands-on parents, always playing with their children. They also perceive their children as equal contributors to the family dynamics. However, because of their lack of sensitivities, they may have to work harder to emotionally bond with their children.
- R. Y. Langham, PhD, Author Melissa Lavery, MS, Editor
