Keisha remembers learning about the Myers-Briggs test in her college psychology class. She thinks it would be great to use in her new job on the human resources team at a pharmaceutical sales organization. She has brainstormed several ways she would like to use the Myers-Briggs in her job. Describe the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). Explain how Keisha could and should use this taxonomy in her organization.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Student answers will vary but should demonstrate understanding of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and its uses. A sample answer follows.

The MBTI evaluates individuals on the basis of four types of preferences:
Extraversion versus introversion 
Sensing versus intuition 
Thinking versus feeling 
Judging versus perceiving 
The MBTI categorizes people into one of 16 different types on the basis of their preferences. The most appropriate use of the MBTI is in a team-building context to help different members understand their varying approaches to accomplishing tasks. It should not be used for hiring decisions. Keisha can use the MBTI to help employees understand themselves and how they approach situations, and to understand how their coworkers do the same. She should not use the MBTI to test applicants and then decide who to hire based on the results.