In my last blog posting, I argued that Myers-Briggs Type Indicator results do not determine how well people can perform as facilitators since MBTI measures preferences, not skills. As facilitators however, we can benefit from being able to identify certain introverted or extroverted traits among meeting participants, so that we can structure our meetings in ways that will give both groups enough time to shine and enough space to feel comfortable.
While there is no infallible formula for spotting where people fall on the spectrum, there are some common behaviors that are associated with introversion and extroversion.
Unsurprisingly, introverts tend to think more carefully before speaking, so it is very likely that participants who are most vocal and who contribute very quickly to various discussions are closer to the extrovert side of the scale. Introverts will tend to seek private time or socialize in smaller groups during breaks, while extroverts will mingle and often stay around for further socializing after the meeting is over. At the same time, claims Karyn Greenstreet, those individuals who make more eye contact and listen attentively and patiently possess at least some introverted preferences. (1)
Here are some of the main points on how to engage these different types of personalities:
Learning about the MBTI is thus an effective means of enhancing your ability to make all your participants feel comfortable and engaged. In this sense, becoming a good facilitator also means becoming more open-minded and sensitive towards a greater range of personalities.
(1) Karyn Greenstreet, How to Facilitate Introverts and Extroverts in Your Group or Class, Self-Employed Success, 12 Jun, 2013.
(2) Many of these tips are featured in Roshan Bliss’s article, Facilitation and Introversion: Tips for Engaging Quiet People, NCDD, nd.
Do you have a unique meeting challenge not covered by one of our blog posts? We’re always looking for different dilemmas to discuss in our articles!