The ESFJ Personality Type: Key Traits, Strengths, Weaknesses & More

According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), we all fall under one of 16 different personality types. And of all 16 personalities, the ESFJ stands out as the likable, socially gracious one in the bunch.

ESFJ stands for extroverted, sensing, feeling, and judging. According to Marta Koonz, principal consultant and certification faculty at The Myers-Briggs Company, ESFJs make up 5.7% of the U.S. population. They're also over twice as likely to be women, with 7.5% of women being the ESFJ type versus only 3.5% of men.

As licensed therapist De-Andrea Blaylock-Solar, MSW, LCSW-S, CST, tells mbg, this type is sometimes referred to as the "consul," which can be thought of simply as diplomatic, team-player energy. "They are seen as being really outgoing and observant. They take note of their surroundings and are in touch with their feelings," she adds.

This type isn't into flings and is typically much more interested in long-term relationships, according to Blaylock-Solar. "They really like the stability of long-term relationships more than a casual flame, and they can be very tenderhearted, trustworthy, and loyal," she says, though she adds that, sometimes, trusting others is hard for them to do.

As Hallett previously wrote for mbg, when it comes to MBTI compatibility, ESFJs would have over a 70% chance of compatibility with people who are also sensing-judging (i.e., ISTJ, ISFJ, ESTJ, or another ESFJ). She also notes ESFJs can find a potentially good match in ENFPs and INFPs, as well.

On the other hand, one type ESFJs may not mesh as well with is an ISTP. According to Hallett, loyalty and commitment are paramount to ESFJs. "Matched with an ISTP (logical thinker, less interpersonally oriented), roadblocks in relationships may center around the ESFJ's need to be needed (since from the ISTP's perspective, that's an indicator of insecurity and a big turnoff)," she explains.

In the workplace, people with the ESFJ personality type want to feel like they're part of a team or community, which Koonz notes is often extended to work relationships with third parties, such as clients. Blaylock-Solar also notes that they don't have a problem being in positions of authority, in which case they are typically supportive without micromanaging.

"They would be someone who brings a lot of structure to things, and they're good at getting what needs to be done, done—but they also need very clear and direct instructions, very clear hierarchies without a lot of ambiguity, to do that," she adds.

ESFJs want to ensure that others feel included, says Koonz, so they tend to be the individuals who create bonds in the workplace. "They are enthusiastic about onboarding new people, making meaningful connections, and upholding the company ethos," she explains, adding, "While type preferences shouldn't be used to limit or exclude someone from specific career paths (any type can do any job!), those with ESFJ preferences tend to choose careers that allow them to focus on the needs of others and determine how best to promote harmony or create a familial atmosphere in the workplace."

Little by little, their greater goal is to make a difference in the world. They are likely to be great team players and try to support their co-workers as much as possible. You can expect someone with this personality type preference to complete their tasks accurately and punctually.

When in leadership positions, one of their main concerns is the emotional well-being of their teams as they're constantly considering the impact of their decisions on people. Among the careers that are likely to be good choices for ESFJs are roles in medicine, education, nursing, counseling, and human resources.

Blaylock-Solar and Koonz both stress the importance of ESFJs having a genuine and trusted support system. As Koonz suggests, "Find ways to connect with others who value and support you. When you're feeling stressed, find someone you know and trust to talk things through with. Communicate your thoughts and feelings."

Each of the 16 MBTI types has its specific nuances, quirks, strengths, and weaknesses.