As he explains, this type isn’t one to take themselves too seriously or box themself in with too much structure. Rather, he notes, they have a lighthearted approach that leans toward spontaneity and fun. “They are generally very easy to connect with and fun to be around,” Hackston says, adding they also like to learn by doing. Think Joey from Friends, or Dolly Parton, a famous example of an ESFP. They’re not necessarily the people you’d entrust a really important business project to—but you would include them in your plans whenever you want to ensure a good time is had. “They are often described as warm, caring, empathetic, generous, energetic, creative, encouraging, welcoming, independent, and spontaneous,” Hackston says—though their spontaneous spirit can make them a bit unreliable, he adds. As psychologist Kristina Hallett, Ph.D., ABPP, previously explained to mbg, “I think of Sensing as information gathering through the here-and-now physical senses and generally more grounded in practicality.” And Hackston notes that ESFPs, in this way, can quickly “gauge what others may need because they are keen observers of people.” However, he says, “the fact that they are too popular might raise red flags to their romantic partners.” One, because it’s difficult to make time for everyone, he says, but also, not every romantic partner is open to sharing an ESFP’s attention and may feel forgotten or neglected. ESFPs also like to experience a lot of variety in their lives, and that includes in their relationships. Hackston explains that individuals with ESFP preferences “will experiment a lot before they commit to someone,” though he adds that when they are dedicated, “they are affectionate and caring partners.” In terms of general compatibility, Hallett notes that for any type, “The way your potential partner approaches the world and communicates (similar in sensing/intuition) is another good indicator of initial attraction.” So in this case, Sensing types, like ESFPs, fare well with other Sensing types. She also notes that differences in extroversion/introversion may cause the most conflict in long-term relationships, so ESFPs on the far end of the extroverted spectrum may want to keep that in mind and pair up with another extrovert. And according to Hackston, ESFPs are likely to thrive with a partner who has a similar sense of adventure (i.e., an ISFP, ISTP, ESTP, and other ESFPs), as opposed to a more structured, planned life you would get with Judging individuals. That said, the way these two approach life (in terms of how they socialize, gather information, communicate, experience the world, and structure their lives) is fundamentally opposite. INTJ may require more stability than ESFP can provide, for example, and ESFP may not understand the way INTJ relates to and/or understands the world. Nevertheless, the differences between these two in both extroversion versus introversion, and sensing versus intuition, could cause some relationship difficulty. And in terms of the actual careers they’re attracted to or well-suited for, ESFPs prefer a creative, flexible, and innovative environment (i.e., a startup or smaller agency where they can grow and make things happen). “ESFPs also bring a great deal of common sense and a realistic approach to the workplace,” Hackston says, adding, “As they enjoy learning new things and taking part in diverse initiatives, their career may fluctuate quite a bit as their interests change and they develop new skills.” As leaders, ESFPs will consistently (maybe even constantly) help their team members, carefully assessing the impact of decisions for the team and mediating conflict, Hackston notes. “These individuals perform at their best when involved with occupations in which they can help others while learning new things,” he adds.
