ESTJ

ESTJs are the pragmatic organizers; they like things done and done properly. They have little
time for anything ethereal, woolly, or conceptual, preferring facts, figures, plans, and
procedures. These are the action-oriented characters who cut to the chase and move quickly to
completion, taking the least circuitous route.

Their desire to get things done may mean that they ignore the niceties, the softer issues, and
they tend not to be tuned in to how other people are feeling.

The desire to jump in and “do” can also make ESTJs very present-focused, so they may not
necessarily appreciate how such present actions may impinge on the future, nor do they excel at
predicting or anticipating future trends or forecasting.

They are keen to make quick decisions and are built to get to closure as quickly as possible in
order to get the job done.

ESTJs may rush in without stopping to consider the full range of options, since their prime focus
is to get on with it. As such, they may be difficult to budge from their preferred course of action.

Characteristics

• Practical and realistic

• Likes to run things
• Gets things done
• Has no time to waste

Areas of Growth

• Slow down and be patient

• Recognize other workable solutions
• Listen more
• Be open to the “big picture”

Attitude

The basic attitude of ESTJs is one of fatalism. Their energies are not directed toward questioning,
challenging, and tampering with existing realities; rather, the challenge is one of fitting into and
enhancing what is there.
Energizers

• Work itself
• Predictability
• Opportunity to direct and lead people
• Logical procedures

Stressors

• Lack of control over time and tasks

• Disorganized environment
• Illogical behavior
• Incompetence

To function at their best

ESTJs need predictability and order. They have high standards and measurements for success.
Tell them what needs to be done; they’ll make it happen.

Relationships

The ESTJ is an outspoken person of principles, which are readily and directly expressed.

ESTJs are not afraid to stand up for what they believe is right, even in the face of overwhelming
odds.

ESTJs are able to make the tough decisions, and every single person will know exactly where they
stand. This honesty and directness is both refreshing and hard-hitting in equal measure.

ESTJs are built to take charge at work, at play, and in relationships. They are essentially caring
and traditional, but they will express themselves with a directness that can at times be bone-
jarring.

ESTJs are extremely open and direct, but they don’t really understand emotions or anything they
see as irrational. If someone is upset, they have to translate the emotion into a problem that
they can deal with factually and practically.

ESTJs are happy with conflict, as they are essentially impervious to their environment. They see
conflict simply as an element of getting things done and may not “get” others who are more
sensitive.
ESTJ at work

ESTJs are hardworking, organized, like things done properly, and have high standards. They do
not like working in chaos or the absence of a plan, and will take charge and create one if
necessary.

They prefer clarity, and if there is none, they will create it. This means they will expect and set
tangible goals that they will work consistently toward, with no deviation or shortcuts.

ESTJs will be difficult to knock off the ball once they are running at the goal. They are efficient,
reliable, and will make sure they grasp all the facts to ensure they are clear and will not get it
wrong.

ESTJs are great managers, happy to take the lead—indeed they prefer it—ensuring everyone is
clear on what is expected and by when.

ESTJs are detailed, practical, factual, sensible, and responsible, and they take these
responsibilities very seriously and will expect others to do the same.