This month’s blog has been inspired by the many questions I receive on how to ‘self-study’ your way into understanding personality type.
Check out these great books on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® for a good read as well as longer-term benefit potential. (You can purchase hyperlinked book titles directly from amazon.ca)
1. Introduction to Myers-Briggs® Type by Isabel Briggs Myers
Written by the creator of the MBTI instrument, this is an essential resource for adding value to workshop, group, and one-on-one applications. This booklet includes detailed descriptions of the 16 MBTI types, an in-depth exploration of the eight preferences, and materials on type dynamics. BONUS: Gain free, unlimited access to a companion website and continue to explore the MBTI framework and how to integrate type concepts into your personal and professional life.
2. Gifts Differing: Understanding Personality Type by Isabel Briggs Myers
Another book by the creator of the MBTI instrument, this book explains the unique gifts and talents of different personality types in an easy to understand manner. Very little ‘psycho-babble’ and a good focus on the many practical applications of personality type. Read this for a glimpse into what makes different people tick!
3. Do What You Are: Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type by Paul Tieger & Barbara Barron-Tieger
Whether you are starting out, starting over, or just fine-tuning, this book helps you investigate different career options and strategies. Drawing on real life case studies, this book also includes popular career choices for different personality types and an overview of work-related strengths and weaknesses.
4. Personality Type: An Owner’s Manual by Lenore Thomson
Even if you know your MBTI type code, you may not know what its implications in everyday life. Not a book for ‘beginners’ by any stretch, but an abundance of great information if you want to dive deeper into understanding different personalities. A real treasure if you want to use personality type for its true potential.
5. Self-Promotion for Introverts: The Quiet Guide to Getting Ahead by Nancy Ancowitz
Filled with anecdotes, smart advice, and tips for helping introverts make the most of natural strengths. This book will empower you to connect with others, communicate with confidence, command attention, and get noticed in an authentic, quiet, and comfortable way.
6. The Art of Speed Reading People: How to Size People Up and Speak Their Language by Paul Tieger & Barbara Barron-Tieger
Described as a ‘crash course in communication strategies’, this book introduces solid communication concepts to help you get your message across to different Types. An equally worthy read if you’re new to the MBTI® instrument or looking for a refresher. And an essential read for anyone who deals with people! 🙂
7. The Introvert Advantage: Making the Most of Your Inner Strengths by Marti Olsen Laney
The back cover says it all: ‘Filled with Aha! Moments.’ Written by an introvert for introverts, consider this book an indispensable guide for finding your way in an extroverted world. Great insight into the edge that introverts bring to every situation. A must read for introverts and extroverts alike!
8. Type Talk at Work (Revised): How the 16 Personality Types Determine Your Success on the Job by Otto Kroeger, Janet Thuesen and Hile Rutledge
Lively ‘type humour’ and small chunks of information covering a broad range of work related topics make this book an easy (and informative!) read. Learn how to optimize relationships and get different personality types working productively. Read this and see your workplace in a whole new light.
9. Was That Really Me?: How Everyday Stress Brings Out Our Hidden Personality by Naomi Quenk
Do you sometimes behave ‘out of character’ when you’re stressed? Many people do. This book takes a closer look at the dynamics of type, and the effects of prolonged stress on different types. A very worthwhile read, even if you just read chapters pertaining to your own type code.
10. What Type Am I by Renee Baron
This is a great introductory MBTI® book. It provides the basics of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator® without diving into too many complexities about the underlying theory. Written in short excerpts, it provides a solid launch pad for further exploring personality type. Get ready to be informed without being overwhelmed!