Though our preferences and predilections can change over time, fundamentally we remain the same. We like certain things, are drawn to certain types of people and situations and make decisions in characteristic ways. But have you ever wondered why you do what you do? Or why you are drawn to certain types of people or work environments?
Personality assessments are a great way to learn more about yourself and better understand and leverage your strengths. They can be particularly helpful as you consider your career and professional future. The challenge however, is to fully understand the scope and limitations of a personality assessment. Too often, people see them as limiting and restrictive. In reality, they should be interpreted as your preferences—not your inabilities.
There are a number of assessments, some better than others. Alumni Career & Professional Development offers the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI); the Career Center also offers the StrengthsFinder assessment. Each has a small fee but comes with a comprehensive report that explains your results. The MBTI focuses on your personality type—the way you interact with people, make decisions, and understand the world around you. StrengthsFinder focuses more on your fundamental talents and aptitudes. The two assessments complement each other nicely in giving you a whole picture of not only what you’re good at doing, but how you like to do it.
Interested in taking one or both of these assessments? Call Career & Professional Development at 303-871-2150. Current students will take the assessment on their own and meet individually with their respective career advisor. Alumni interested in the MBTI can participate in a group interpretation of their results on Monday, September 18 at 5:30pm. Interested alums can either call Career & Professional Development or email Grace Goodman.
