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What is a Type B Personality

Personality
Author:
Pratisrutee Mishra
June 7, 2024

Do you know what jobs are ideally made for Type B person? Aligning employees with roles that match their personality can lead to a 21% increase in productivity and a 22% boost in profitability, while mismatch can result in up to 45% higher turnover. 

It is certain that a team, to achieve its best productivity, must always strive to balance leaders equally with followers. How does the type B personality contribute to your workplace dynamics? Unravel your top curiosities about the type B personality with this blog. Additionally, we invite you to read more about workplace personality types that actually matter from our best releases. 

What is the Type B personality?

Type B personality is defined as the least hurried individuals, they prefer an equally distributed work set up, and find concentrating on chunks better one at a time. Unlike their Type A counterparts, who are driven by ambition and urgency, Type B personalities approach work with a calmer demeanor and a flexible attitude. They tend to be highly adaptable to changes and are more comfortable with non-linear approaches to tasks and problem-solving.

It’s important to note that while Type B individuals may not exhibit the traditional competitive drive, they are not to be mistaken for being unambitious or lacking motivation. Instead, they bring a balanced perspective to the team, often contributing to a reduction in workplace stress and an increase in overall job satisfaction

What it Means to Have a Type B Personality?

What is a Type B Personality

When a person at your workplace approaches deadlines with a calm demeanor, offers creative solutions without seeking the spotlight, and navigates office dynamics with a steady hand, then you know it’s your Type B employee. This individual’s flexible nature, non-competitive attitude, and stress-resistant approach not only enhance team harmony but also bring a balanced perspective to challenges, making them a valued member of any professional setting.

Examples of Type B Personality

Type B Personality Example

The human psyche is complex and dynamic. To help you understand the personality type of a person, we have curated a list of famous people who belong to the cluster. Their presentability and nature of work best describes the characteristics of type b personality. However, a fact must be taken to note, no personality type independently operates for an individual. Here are the examples of type b personality you may know in real life: 

Characteristics of Type B Personality

Personal and professional characteristics of type b personality can often differ on the basis of context. The core type B behavior pattern highlights the balanced approach towards life and work. They strongly value personal well-being alongside professional achievements. Here's how they operate in professional settings, with the typical type B characteristics: 

type b behavior pattern

Type B Personality Traits: Pros and Cons

pros and cons b personality

The type B personality traits come in a combo of both pros and cons. These affect the responsibility taking behavior, role carry, and work ethics. To make sure you set the type B person up for optimal productivity, it is important to take a note of their strengths and weaknesses. To help you understand their behavioral disposition better, we have jotted the typical advantages and disadvantages of having onboard a type B personality:

The Incredible Pros:

  • Lower Stress Levels: Type B individuals typically experience lower stress levels, which can be beneficial in high-pressure environments. For example, during a critical project deadline, a Type B person might remain calm and composed, effectively managing their tasks without succumbing to anxiety.
  • Creativity: They often have a creative approach to problem-solving. In a brainstorming session, a Type B might come up with innovative ideas because they feel less pressure to conform and are more open to exploring different avenues.
  • Adaptability: Their adaptable nature allows them to adjust to changes with ease. If a company undergoes restructuring, a Type B employee is likely to embrace the change and find new ways to contribute effectively.

The Inevitable Cons:

  • Procrastination: They may tend to procrastinate, which can lead to delays in task completion. For instance, a Type B individual might put off starting a report until the last minute, potentially compromising the quality or timeliness of their work.
  • Low Motivation: Without external deadlines or pressures, Type B personalities might lack the motivation to start or complete tasks. In a self-directed project, they might struggle to maintain momentum without clear deadlines.
  • Less Attention to Detail: Their relaxed approach can sometimes mean a lesser focus on detail. For example, in data analysis, a Type B might overlook minor errors that could lead to significant discrepancies in the results.

How Type B personality differs from Type A?

Though personality types are more of a spectrum than compactly distinct characteristics. Most people exhibit traits from both types and even some unique. The Type A Vs Type B personality theory also has its critics and is considered somewhat outdated by modern psychological standards. 

Today, high standard,  evidence-based psychometric assessments are more preferred for making informed and accurate choices in talent management. Here is how a well-defined psychometric assessment can differentiate your type A personality and type B personality:

b personality traits

Why is Understanding the Type B Personality Type Important in Hiring Decisions?

Understanding and leveraging the strengths of Type B personalities can lead to a more harmonious and productive work environment. These individuals often excel in roles that require patience, mediation, and creative thinking. They can be instrumental in fostering a workplace culture that values diversity of thought and work-life balance, which are key components of modern HR practices.

How does the Type Behavior Pattern Impact the Workplace?

In the workplace, Type B people are often seen as strong allies within the company due to their ability to create better working relationships. They are highly flexible with new approaches and are open to exploring different avenues rather than sticking to tired systems. This makes them valuable in roles that require innovation, team collaboration, and long-term strategic thinking.

How to Get Best Out of Candidates and Employees with Type B Personality?

type b personality

To get the best out of candidates and employees with a Type B personality, both pre-hire and post-hire interventions can be strategically implemented. Using the big 5 personality test as part of these interventions can provide comprehensive insights into candidate fit. Here’s a discussion on how to manage Type B personality in the workplace

Pre-Hire Interventions

  • Personality Assessments: Use psychometric tests to identify the Type B behavior pattern, ensuring the role is a good fit for their personality.
  • Structured Interviews: Incorporate questions that allow candidates to demonstrate their strengths, such as teamwork and creativity.
  • Work Simulations: Provide real-world tasks to assess how they manage work pressure and interact with others.

Post-Hire Interventions for Type B Personalities

  • Orientation Programs: Help them integrate into the company culture with programs that highlight values aligning with their relaxed nature.
  • Mentorship: Assign mentors who can provide guidance and support without creating pressure.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Provide roles that allow them to lead in a way that plays to their strengths, such as strategic planning.
  • Flexible Work Options: Offer work arrangements that cater to their preference for a balanced lifestyle.
  • Employee Surveys: Regularly measure their level of engagement and identify areas where they feel most motivated. While also assessing job satisfaction and ensuring their well-being and contentment with various aspects of their role.
  • High Potential Assessments: Identify employees with high potential for growth and provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.
  • Prompt Feedback System: Implement a system that provides immediate feedback, allowing for quick adjustments and recognition of their efforts.
  • Recognition of Efforts: Acknowledge their work and contributions to reinforce their value to the team.
  • Stress Management Programs: Offer resources for effectively managing workload and stress.
  • Team Dynamics: Ensure they are part of teams where their collaborative nature is appreciated and can flourish.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, managing the Type B behavior pattern in the workplace requires a planned approach. It values the unique contributions they make while also fostering an environment that aligns with their strengths. HR professionals should focus on creating a supportive culture that encourages work-life balance, offers flexibility, and recognizes the importance of mental well-being. 

Best implementation of strategic pre-hire and post-hire interventions can ensure that Type B individuals are not only accommodated but also positioned to thrive for top positions. Ultimately, the goal is to leverage the natural tendencies of Type B person to enhance team dynamics and drive organizational success. Are you ready to welcome diversity in personality types for your workplace? Build and lead a more dynamic, inclusive, and productive environment with PMaps. Connect with us now on assessment@pmaps.in or call us at 8591320212.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about this blog through the commonly asked questions:

What are the Key Traits of a Type B Personality?

Type B personality traits typically encompass happy-go-lucky, balance, openness, creativity and innovation. 

Can Someone Have Traits of Both Type A and Type B Personalities?

Yes, most people display a mix of both Type A and Type B traits. Personalities are complex and can’t be strictly categorized. Such people often display quality focused working and aggressive competitiveness.

How does a Type B Personality Approach Work and Deadlines?

Type B personality prioritizes detail and quality over speed and may take more time to complete tasks. They work at a steady pace and may not feel the urgency of deadlines as intensely.

How can Type B personalities succeed in high-pressure environments?

Yes, type B personalities often withstand high pressure environments and situations. They rely on strong support systems to manage stress. And use techniques like mindfulness to maintain their calm.

Can Type B Personalities be Leaders?

As leaders, type B personalities are inclusive. They can be effective and open minded leaders, often excelling in roles that require patience. They are mostly empathetic and this allows them to connect with team members personally.

How can Managers Effectively Motivate Type B Employees?

Type B personality traits are best leveraged when they are allowed to operate autonomously, give the role of a team support, and are well recognized for their contribution. 

Resources Related To Test

Related Assessments

Big Five Personality Test

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Provides deep insights into personality traits, enhancing role fit and team dynamics.

16 PF - Personality Evaluator Test

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Assesses 16 key personality traits to understand workplace behaviors, enhancing recruitment and team dynamics.

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