Leading ESFJs: Change Leadership Series

Learn how to leverage ESFJs’ talents and address potential blind spots to help these stability-loving types thrive through change.

Aug 23, 2024

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An ESFJ man at a lively outdoor party. The man wears a teal shirt and pants, an apron, and smiles while holding a blue birthday cake with lit candles in one hand and a book in the other. They have an umbrella resting on their shoulder. Behind, a woman in an apron and three children are positioned around a picnic table. — Image from 16personalities.com

How to spot ESFJs (Consuls):

ESFJs (Consuls) share the Extraverted, Observant, Feeling, and Judging personality traits.
They approach change with a mix of caution and selective enthusiasm. They may support changes that align with company values and improve team morale but resist those that threaten the status quo. During change, they’ll seek clear, practical guidance.

Will the ESFJs on your team disagree with the group? Well, if they’re like most people with their personality type, then probably not. 👇

A blue character icon with a speech bubble sits above the text: “Insight of the Day. ESFJs (Consuls) are the least likely personality type to say they often disagree with the majority opinion in a group setting.” — Image from 16personalities.com

ESFJs value harmony and consensus. They’re natural peacemakers, and their desire to maintain positive relationships often leads them to align with the majority opinion, even if they have reservations. During times of change, ESFJs may not voice concerns or alternative ideas. This can result in missed opportunities for improvement or failure to address potential issues.

Here are three leadership strategies you can apply when guiding ESFJs through change:

Create safe spaces for individual input: Encourage ESFJs to share their thoughts privately before group discussions, allowing them to express themselves without fear of disrupting group harmony.
Emphasize the value of diverse opinions: Highlight how different perspectives contribute to better outcomes, helping ESFJs feel more comfortable expressing dissenting views.
Model respectful disagreement: Demonstrate how to voice concerns constructively. By setting this example, you create a culture where ESFJs feel more comfortable expressing their true opinions.

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Now let’s go deeper. ESFJs value structure, stability, and harmony, so, yes, change can be particularly challenging for them. But these individuals are also dedicated, loyal, and very supportive. Once they get behind a change, they bring many strengths to the table that can benefit your entire team. Let’s see how to leverage their talents and address potential blind spots to help ESFJs thrive through transitions.

Next, we’ll cover:

The special strength that ESFJs bring to navigating workplace change
The greatest hurdle that ESFJs encounter during periods of uncertainty
A key leadership strategy for supporting ESFJs through transitions

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