In today’s fast-paced workplace, building a team that transcends mere competence requires harnessing a hidden power – synergy. It’s that magical spark when individual strengths combine to create something truly extraordinary. Personality tests, often dismissed as frivolous questionnaires, can be a powerful tool to ignite this synergy during a facilitated team session.

Beyond Skills: Unmasking The “Why” Behind The “What”

Personality tests go beyond technical skills team session with a personality test listed on resumes. They delve deeper, uncovering the “why” behind the “what.” Popular tests like StrengthsFinder or the Enneagram explore core traits like:

• Analytical vs. Creative: How someone approaches information (analytical thinkers favor logic, creatives embrace ideas).
• Driver vs. Collaborator: How someone contributes (drivers push for results, collaborators prioritize teamwork).
• Independent vs. Team Player: How someone works best (independents thrive on autonomy, team players excel through collaboration).
• Optimistic vs. Realistic: How someone views challenges (optimists see opportunities, realists identify potential pitfalls).
• Introverted vs. Extroverted: How someone gets energized (introverts recharge alone, extroverts through interaction).

By understanding these diverse preferences within your team, you can create an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best. Imagine a team where analytical thinkers and creative minds work together, ensuring both practicality and innovation.

Building a Session for Success

1. Choosing the Right Test: Select a reputable and well-validated test that aligns with your team’s goals. Consider size, industry, and desired outcomes (e.g., boosting innovation, improving communication).

2. Pre-Session Transparency: Inform your team about the session’s purpose and the chosen test. Emphasize that this is about recognizing strengths, not weaknesses.

3. Setting Ground Rules: Create a safe space for open discussion with respect for individual styles. Remind everyone that every personality type is valuable.

The Team Session: Unleashing Synergy

1. Individual Exploration: Allow team members time to review their results. Encourage self-reflection on identified traits and how they impact their work style.

2. Group Dialogue: Facilitate a discussion where team members share key takeaways from their results. How do their preferred styles contribute to the team’s overall success?

3. Mapping the Team Dynamic: Analyze the overall team composition through the test’s framework. Discuss how a mix of personalities creates a well-rounded team – for example, independent thinkers paired with collaborators can foster innovation while maintaining structure.

4. Building on Strengths: Brainstorm ways to leverage each member’s natural strengths. This could involve assigning tasks based on results or adjusting meeting formats to cater to different communication preferences.

5. Action Planning: Develop concrete steps to utilize these insights. This could involve assigning rotating “idea champion” roles during brainstorming sessions or setting silent reflection time before open discussions.

Beyond the Session: Sustaining the Spark

The impact shouldn’t be confined to the session itself:

• Ongoing Communication: Encourage team members to reference their personality insights during future discussions or project planning.

• Celebrating Diversity: Recognize and appreciate the unique perspectives each member brings to the table.

• Continuous Evolution: Use the initial session as a springboard for further team building exercises that strengthen bonds and trust.

Conclusion: Building the Dream Team

Utilizing personality tests in a facilitated team session is an investment in your team’s growth. By understanding each other’s natural tendencies, you foster a more cohesive and productive unit. Remember, this is an ongoing journey. As your team evolves, revisit these insights to maintain peak performance.

Bonus Tip: Explore gamifying the session with personality-based quizzes or activities to promote fun and learning. After all, a team that plays together, thrives together.