Leading ENFPs: Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Series
What would you like to see in your inbox from us each month? Complete this 30-second survey and let us know!
Emotionally intelligent leadership is about meeting people where they’re at rather than expecting them to meet you. This emotionally intelligent leadership series will help you understand the unique positions and perspectives of all 16 personality types and provide tactical tips and advice to meet them there.
Do you lead an ENFP (Campaigner)?
ENFPs (Campaigners) share the Extraverted, Intuitive, Feeling, and Prospecting personality traits. Known for their empathy and nonjudgmental nature, they are often the go-to for support and advice. They tend to wear their heart on their sleeves and express their feelings openly. Quick to offer praise, encouragement, and appreciation, they excel at bringing out the best in others. However, their strong emotions can sometimes cloud their judgment or overwhelm them in high-pressure situations.
“I have an idea!”
If you’ve ever worked with ENFP personalities (Campaigners), you’ve likely heard this phrase a lot. And it’s no wonder – these creative, passionate individuals are bursting with ideas and possibilities.
Harnessing ENFPs’ enthusiasm and imagination can help spark new ideas and move your team ahead. But leading ENFPs isn’t always easy. Their free-spirited nature and aversion to routine can sometimes clash with the structure and predictability that many workplaces require.
So, what should you do? Get to know what drives ENFPs – their values, motivations, and unique view of the world. Then, you can lead in an emotionally intelligent way to help ENFPs do their best work.
Understanding the ENFP Personality
96% of ENFPs say they often drift away into daydreaming and fantasizing about different ideas or scenarios.
ENFPs love exploring new possibilities and are always on the lookout for opportunities to learn, grow, and make a positive impact. For them, work is more than a paycheck – it’s a chance to connect with others and contribute to something larger than themselves.
Highly attuned to the emotions and needs of others, ENFPs can naturally put themselves in other people’s shoes. This empathy can be a big asset at work, helping them build strong relationships, resolve conflicts, and create a positive team dynamic.
To stay engaged, ENFPs need variety and flexibility. They thrive in dynamic environments where they can explore ideas, take risks, and think outside the box. Rigid structures or routines quickly bore and frustrate them.
Tips for Leading ENFPs
88% of ENFPs say they are usually able to adapt quickly to new situations.
To help ENFPs reach their full potential, give them the freedom to explore ideas and take risks. Encourage them to think big and approach problems creatively. When they bring a novel suggestion, don’t immediately point out flaws or shoot it down. Instead, try to engage with their idea and help them plan practical steps to bring it to life, if possible. While ENFPs dislike micromanagement, they do benefit from gentle oversight to stay on task and meet deadlines.
ENFPs thrive on regular feedback and appreciation. Acknowledge their unique insights and innovative solutions with specific, authentic praise to keep them motivated and engaged. Provide constructive feedback when necessary, but frame it supportively rather than critically.
ENFPs do their best work when their job has meaning and purpose. Show them how their role fits into the bigger picture and how their efforts make a real difference. When ENFPs feel their work matters, they’ll go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.
Engaging ENFPs’ Strengths
93% of ENFPs say they typically feel concerned and willing to help when someone voices a complaint to them.
ENFPs are adaptable and quick-thinking, able to shift gears, absorb new information, and find creative solutions to unexpected challenges. In a fast-paced business environment, their flexibility is a major asset. Give them opportunities to troubleshoot problems or navigate complex situations, and watch them rise to the occasion.
As gifted communicators, ENFPs can adapt their message and delivery style to different audiences. They have a way of making people feel heard and valued, and they can often find common ground even amid conflict. Involve them in important presentations, team discussions, or sensitive client interactions.
ENFPs are lifelong learners with natural curiosity and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone. Engage their growth mindset with opportunities for professional development, cross-training, or stretch assignments. Encouraging continuous learning not only fulfills ENFPs but also adds value to the entire team.
Final Takeaway
By giving ENFPs autonomy to explore new ideas, providing them with regular feedback and appreciation, and connecting their work to a larger purpose, you can create an environment where they can truly thrive.
As you think about the ENFPs on your team, consider this question: How can you encourage them to share their most innovative ideas, even if they seem a bit unconventional at first?
How’s the Emotional Intelligence Challenge Going?
These deep dives into each personality type are a great way to apply emotionally intelligent leadership with your team.
Use the information you gain here as you go through your 30-day emotional intelligence challenge.