ESFP: Extraverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving - 36 HR Training and Consultancy36 HR Training and Consultancy

ESFP personality types are entertaining, easy-going, sociable people, who like to put others at ease.

Note: This is a resource page on ESFP - there are 16 Types of MBTI personalities.  Find out which are you.   This resource page is frequently referred to in our MBTI Teambuilding Workshops to help participants get more information about their MBTI Type.

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator identifies 16 personality types, including ESFP (extraverted, sensing, feeling, perceiving). ESFP personality types are frequently described as spontaneous, resourceful, and outgoing. The ESFP personality type is also known as “the entertainer” or “the performer.”

They enjoy being the center of attention and are frequently referred to as “class clowns.” The ESFP personality type is the polar opposite of the INTJ personality type.

According to psychologist David Keirsey, the creator of the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, approximately 4% to 10% of all people are ESFPs.

ESFP Compatibility

ESFPs tend to get along well with INTJ, INFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ types, which may be a case of opposites attracting. The “judging” nature in these types often complements the practical side of ESFPs.

Key Characteristics of an ESFP

They are resourceful and practical. ESFPs prefer to learn through experience rather than through books and theoretical discussions. As a result, students with ESFP personalities may struggle in traditional classroom settings. They excel, however, in situations where they can interact with others or learn through direct experience.

They discover things as they go along. ESFPs are very much in the moment and often fail to consider how their current actions will have long-term consequences. They frequently rush into new situations and figure things out as they go. They also dislike routine, enjoy new experiences, and are always on the lookout for new adventures.

They are extremely understanding. When it comes to other people, ESFPs are perceptive. They can sense how others are feeling and respond appropriately. People find them to be friendly, sympathetic, and easygoing.

They enjoy themselves. While ESFPs do not avoid the spotlight, they are more concerned with living in the moment and doing what feels right at the time.

Famous ESFP Persons include Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton (picture below), Marilyn Monroe, Dolly Parton, Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland, Magic Johnson, Elvis Presley etc.

If there is a crisis, the ESFP will be there, taking charge, offering support, revelling in their ability to help, loving the drama. Their energies and infectious enthusiasm, mean that other people will like them, and they will build relationships easily and often. The ability of the ESFP to drop everything and provide immediate, practical support may come at the expense of an ability to plan, schedule and prioritise.

ESFP’s Strengths

ESFP’s characteristics include adaptability, friendliness, and talkativeness. They like life and being around other people. This personality type enjoys interacting with others and trying new things.

Potential ESFP development areas

ESFP personality types can struggle to meet deadlines and do not always finish what they start. They’re easily distracted.

Personal Relationships of ESFP
ESFPs, as extraverts, enjoy spending time with others and have excellent interpersonal skills.

ESFPs are good at understanding how others feel and responding to others’ emotions in productive ways. As a result, ESFPs make excellent leaders and have a talent for mobilizing, motivating, and persuading group members.

Others find ESFPs to be warm, kind, and thoughtful, which makes them popular and well-liked. ESFPs love meeting new people, but they also crave new experiences.

They are generally focused on the present and will frequently be the first to try out the newest ride at an amusement park or a new adventure sport.

Career Opportunities

Because of their dislike of routine, ESFPs thrive in jobs that provide a lot of variety. Jobs that require a lot of socializing are also a good fit because they allow people with this personality type to put their considerable people skills to use. Careers that require a lot of structure and solitary work can be challenging for ESFPs, and they frequently become bored in such situations.

ESFP personalities enjoy making work enjoyable and fostering a cooperative atmosphere. At work, ESFPs learn best by practicing a new skill with others. ESFPs are often drawn to careers that allow them to use their outgoing personality and attention to others, such as healthcare and teaching. Careers that may appeal to ESFPs also include: Elementary Teacher. Recreation Worker. Social Worker. Special Education Teacher. Nurse. Physical Therapist. Massage Therapist. Occupational Therapist, Actor, Athletic Coach, Fashion Designer, etc.