The test on personality traits provided by Human Metrics (n.d.) revealed that I am an INTJ type of person, according to Jung’s classifications. In particular, I have a moderate preference for introversion, a moderate preference for intuition, a slight preference for thinking, and a distinct preference for judging (Human Metrics, n.d.). This makes me a system builder, which can be both beneficial and challenging for assuming different roles in human services. The present paper identifies personality traits that help and challenge the ability to become a leader and a planner in an organization providing social services.
Advanced human services professional practitioners often work in leadership roles. My preference for judging instead of perceiving is beneficial for assuming the role, as I can create a neat predictable system for everyone to follow, instead of being spontaneous and disorganized. I can establish a clear, effective system and follow all its standards to establish its credibility and provide an example for my followers. However, due to my preference for introversion, I often find it difficult to be around people for too long, which is a significant part of being a leader in human services. Thus, I believe that I need to address this problem in the nearest future. Since I do not think that introversion can be changed easily, I want to optimize it. In particular, I plan to learn how exactly I can recharge and become more aware of my body language to stop showing the signs of my irritation when I do not feel comfortable.
Apart from being leaders, advanced human service practitioners often take up the roles of planners. This is my strongest ability as an INTJ type of person, as I can use both theories and best practices to work exactly as I want them at the time that I want them to work. My preference to sensing can help to see beyond the events that happen at present to understand their deeper meaning. This deeper understanding of events can help me foresee the outcomes of activities and plan accordingly. Even though this trait is beneficial for long-term planning and contingency planning, it may cause problems with short-term planning. In particular, while trying to grasp the deeper meaning of events, I may fail to notice obvious problems that need an immediate reaction. This may hinder my ability to make short-term plans for addressing emergencies. In order to overcome this problem, I plan to find a colleague who can help me review the plans and assessments of current situations to ensure that I cover all the basic issues.
While my personality traits may hinder some roles assumed by advanced human service practitioners, my personal values do not conflict with human service values. According to the American Public Human Service Association (APHSA, 2015), the core values of human service practitioners include “respecting the dignity and welfare of all people, promoting self-determination, honoring cultural diversity, advocating for social justice, and acting with integrity, honesty, genuineness, and objectivity” (para. 2). Even though I usually want to complete the planned objectives regardless of the opinions of others, I realize that I only act as an instrument to help people achieve better living. This idea helps me to be selfless and unbiased when providing services to clients or leading a group of followers. Even though I may have my opinion, which I like to advocate, I try to stay objective and open to new ideas. Thus, I believe that I should preserve these values to adhere to the purpose of human services.
References
American Public Human Service Association. (2015). Ethical standards for human services professionals. APHSA. Web.
Human Metrics. (n.d.). Jung typology test. Web.