the use of personality assessments has had both advocates and critics due to issues with validity and reliability. More recently, there’s been greater acceptance, and, in fact, a surge in their use. Many individuals and organizations are leveraging the power of assessment tools to gain insights into employee behaviors and traits for improving performance and building better work relationships.
Trying to identify the right assessment tool can be overwhelming. With numerous assessment tools available, how does one tell which assessment provides the best insights? At Crosworks, we use The Birkman Method because it provides scalable solutions with unmatched depth and accuracy. It covers a broad range of career situations with personality dimensions and offers rich insights.
To explain why we rely on Birkman so much, we are comparing it with the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) to determine which one offers better value in its approaches and applications. Shelly Stotzer, CEO of – Crosworks shares, “There are two reasons that we lean on the Birkman Method rather than MBTI. First, the validity of MBTI has been questioned because of the lack of scientific rigor
behind it. Second, given the work we do, understanding the motivators behind people’s behaviors is incredibly important to identify an environment in which someone can be successful and fulfilled.”
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a popular personality assessment tool that is based on the theories of psychologist, Carl Jung. This assessment classifies people into one of sixteen categories based on four scales.
Through these categories, the assessment aims to determine how people perceive or interpret information, make decisions, and relate to their environment. This assessment is easy to implement due to its simplicity and fixed personality indicators.
Birkman vs. Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
For a quick and simple test the MBTI assessment is ideal. Myers-Briggs falls short compared to Birkman’s detailed analysis. The Birkman Method goes deeper by tappings into your hidden traits, identifying your strengths, and providing an actionable plan to attain the best career results in work and life.
Beyond Self Exploration
The Birkman Method focuses on talent selection, development, team performance, and leadership. It looks at the larger picture. It taps into understanding needs, determining stress behaviors, and identifying the ideal environment where individuals can perform their best.
“The Birkman does an exceptional job of breaking out what someone needs separately from the way the world might see them. We have found this over and over again.” continues Stozer.
With Birkman, as a team member, you identify areas of improvement and self-development. You understand your needs, unleash your inner strengths, and contribute to high-performing teams that thrive. As a leader, Birkman equips you to coach effectively. It helps you understand natural work styles and teaches you how to complement them against the strengths of other team members.
Scientific Credibility and Measurement
The Birkman Method is known for its reliability and scientific validity. Its complex scoring system and ongoing research contribute to its reputation as a robust and trustworthy assessment tool.
MBTI is a type indicator test and has its merits. That said, it lacks prescriptive data that is useful for individuals and organizations.
Comprehensive Actionable Insights
Birkman’s focus on needs and stress behaviors often leads to more targeted and effective coaching interventions. Based on assessment results, individuals can identify what they need and desire. in the workplace.
Employees develop a better understanding of what motivates and drives them to perform better and achieve their goals. Leaders, on the other hand, benefit from determining the key strengths and potential of their team members. They find themselves in a better position to leverage the differences in these strengths and make the team perform at its highest level.
Conclusion
In summary, we believe that Birkman offers a more comprehensive, nuanced, and actionable approach to understanding personalities and behaviors. As an individual, you can use this valuable tool to approach career opportunities and seek the right job that best fits your skills and interests.
Looking to move ahead in your career? Crosworks can help you navigate your goals and tailor your career to your skills and interests. To talk to a Birkman Certified coach and learn how you can leverage Birkman in your career goals, schedule an introductory call here.