Leading ESTJs: Emotionally Intelligent Leadership Series

Jul 15, 2024

∙ Paid

An ESTJ woman stands confidently in an office, emanating a sense of leadership. She wears blue glasses and a blue dress. Behind her, a team of diverse people are engaged in various tasks: a woman types at a computer, a man walks with a file, and another woman reaches for a binder. A final man is outside washing the window. The letters “ESTJ” are prominently displayed to the left. — Image from 16personalities.com

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 ESTJ (Executive)?

ESTJs (Executives) share the Extraverted, Observant, Thinking, and Judging personality traits. They prefer to keep emotions separate from work and expect others to do the same, often viewing displays of emotion as a distraction from goals. You may notice them inadvertently dismissing people’s feelings as they strive for efficient action, but their responsible and dutiful nature means they genuinely want to support the team. Their direct communication style can provide much-needed clarity, though at times they may unintentionally offend others with their bluntness.

If you’re a leader who values efficiency, structure, and results (who doesn’t?), then you’d likely appreciate having an ESTJ personality type (Executive) on your team.

ESTJs are known for their practicality, dedication, and strong work ethic. They excel at creating order, following rules, and ensuring that work is completed to the highest standards. But in order to work together effectively, you have to know what ESTJs value most in a work environment and from a leader. Only then can you lead in an emotionally intelligent way.

Let’s dive into understanding the ESTJ mindset, communicating directly and honestly with ESTJs, and providing the structure and clear expectations that ESTJs thrive on.

Understanding the ESTJ Personality

97% of ESTJs report feeling like they normally rise to the occasion when presented with challenges.

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