What is ESFJ?

ESFJ stands for Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, and Judgement and is one of 16 personality types studied from the MBTI personality identification indicator (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator). The MBTI personality assessment developed by Isabel Briggs Myers, Katharine Cook Briggs and David Keirsey from the work of renowned psychiatrist Carl G. Jung the types of psychology based on theories of cognitive functions. Keirsey named ESFJ The Provider because they are very interested in caring, protecting and helping others in very practical ways, and ESFJ is one of the four personality types of The Guardian.

What are the personality traits of the ESFJ group?

The MBTI assessment accurately estimates about 75% according to its guiding indicator, using multiple-choice questions on the basis of four "binary" (opposing psychological pairs), ESFJ is one of 16 personality types and is abbreviated by the first four letters (iNtuition is an exception because I is used for Introversion) as follows:

• Extraversion: extroverted tendencies, have the feeling of being motivated and energetic for those around them;

• Sensing: using specific perception rather than intuition, so they focus attention on the small details rather than the big picture, as well as what happens in reality rather than things that have can come in the future;

• Feeling: making decisions based on feelings, emotional state, personal values rather than based on objective factors or logical rules;

• Judgment: they judge in a very principled and predictable way, early plan and follow it rather than making spontaneous and flexible decisions.

What are the core values, actions, and thoughts of ESFJ's personality trends?

ESFJs tend to focus more on the outside world and assess their experiences subjectively. Much of their assessment is based on a belief system. ESFJs love to be specific, trusting in the detailed, practical information collected based on physiological senses. ESFJs are warm and interested in the well-being of others, contented when witnessing others' happiness. They see the importance of traditional values and the guarantees it brings. Similar to ENFJs, the value of ESFJs is more focused on social organizations. They excel in an environment that has high ethical standards because they tend to show generosity and kindness. They also appreciate the rules of law and expect others to do the same. ESFJs may be less interested in the concepts behind rules and avoid abstraction and anthropomorphism.

ESFJs always try to find harmony in every possible field, they are easily offended because of the indifference or reluctance of others to participate in activities which ESFJ feels noble and important. If losing control, this could be one of ESFJ's weaknesses; therefore, people with this kind of personality should try to be aware of their behavior around different people of different cultures, knowledge or personalities.

ESFJs are very interested in their appearance and are very sensitive about their social status - this personal subject is really a "ticking time bomb" for those who decide to discuss it with an ESFJ, especially with some criticism or ridicule involved. ESFJs also respect the hierarchy and do their best to gain a position in government.

The personality of ESFJs is that they like to engage in conversations that focus on the actual topic or the lives of others - however, they will try to get out of discussions once it relates to abstract or theoretical topics. ESFJs do not care about analyzing complex ideas or discussing causes and consequences, this is a stark contrast to the NT personality types.

The ESFJs tend to be very hearty, sensitive and profound. These are great traits, but it can also make it difficult for them and those around them - People with this type of personality are likely to have difficulty coping with situations that involve criticism or conflict.

ESFJs are very serious and keep their promises when they make commitments. They put their guarantees and stability above everything else while still not forgetting the important things (even small) in their lives. This personality trait makes them very stable and loyal partners. ESFJs prefer structure over spontaneity and favor clear values, predictability, and stability - in all areas of their lives.

ESFJs dislike conflicts and criticism - they tend to be defensive and hurt if someone (especially someone close to them) criticizes their favorite habits, ideas, traditions. They often take care and worry too much about others, which can also lead to their needs being forgotten. ESFJs need to know they are loved and their efforts are valuable. Therefore, people with this type of personality often seek praise or try to attract the attention of others.

Due to the above personality traits, ESFJ women are often considered to be extremely feminine and are often described as role models in both real life and movies or television shows, whereas ESFJ men often show and use these characteristics in a different way.

The career of the ESFJ personality group

ESFJs pay attention to what they like to do the most, which is helping others in practical ways, being able to follow observations and see results. The perfect working environment for them is when their values and communication skills are standardized to organize people and processes. ESFJs are suitable for the following career fields:

• Community and social services (Health Education, Counselors);

• Social Media (Editor, Public Relations, Author);

• Education (Teachers, Administrators);

• Business, Management, and Sales (Marketing, Human Resource Management, Business Management);

• Entertainment, Art, and Design;

• Personal care services (Personal trainer, Nanny);

• Science (Psychologist, Sociologist);

• Laws (Police, Court);

• Health care (Dietitians, Doctors, Nurses);

• Office and Administration.

The relationship between ESFJs and others

ESFJs are inherently outgoing so they are always enthusiastic in communicating, trying to create connections and understanding with people around them. They are always friendly, attentive and harmonious with people to make a common contribution to the collective.

• For ISFJ, ESTJ, ESFP: they have similar characteristics and many things in common so it is easy for ESFJs to share values, interests, and approaches;

• For ISTJ, ISFP, ESTP, ENFJ: they have some differences but these differences are attractive to ESFJs. Basically, they still have something in common to create a balance in their relationship with ESFJs;

• For ISTP, INFJ, ENTJ, ENFP: At first, ESFJs may have some difficulty accessing and connecting with this personality group. However, if interacting for a while, they will discover commonalities as well as other points of view that can complement each other;

• For INTP, INTJ, INFP, ENTP: this personality group is opposite and conflicting with ESFJs, but if it is possible to develop a relationship, this is an opportunity for ESFJs to learn and grow themselves, the challenges always come with great opportunity.

ESFJs are very loyal friends and are willing to spend a lot of time with people who are important to them. They are passionate, collective and very traditional. ESFJs seek durable and sustainable relationships, and they will do everything to make their friends happy. Not surprisingly, ESFJs are admired and loved by many people.

ESFJs like to make their friends feel comfortable, but they also expect reciprocity. People with this type of personality don't like strong criticism, especially negative comments that come from people they trust. Importantly, ESFJs do not like to be judged when it comes to dealing with people who do not share the same opinion.

People with ESFJ personality types should also note that their sensitivity allows them to recognize what motivates their friends - this knowledge can be used for both sides, the good side (encouraging and inspiring others) and the bad side (manipulating and controlling others). Unfortunately, many ESFJs trust their friends excessively and always protect them regardless of the situation.

ESFJ friends always try hard to keep good personal relationships and other social relationships. Approachable and sincere are two personalities that help them easily make many acquaintances and friends.

In short, ESFJs are very emotional and always appreciate the close personal relationships. ESFJs want to serve others, and they are happy to see their loved ones living joyfully. They are praised for their warmth, sincerity and caring nature, as well as their special ability to recognize and develop the strengths of others. They are often not good at resolving conflicts but tend to be very calm and persuasive. Relationships are central to their lives, and they make every effort to develop and maintain personal relationships. The ESFJs are also eager to get this from others.

Classify trends in the ESFJ personality group

• Artisan personality groups (SP): ISFP (Composer), ISTP (Crafter), ESFP (Performer), ESTP (Promoter);

• Guardian personality group (SJ): ISTJ (Inspector), ISFJ (Protector), ESFJ (Provider), ESTJ (Supervisor);

• Idealist personality group (NF): ENFP (Champion), INFJ (Counselor), INFP (Healer), ENFJ (Teacher);

• Rational personality group (NT): INTP (Architect), ENTJ (Field Marshal), ENTP (Inventor), INTJ (Mastermind).

The popularity of the ESFJ personality group

This is the second most popular personality group in the world and accounts for about 9-13% of the world's population. By gender, only 8% of ESFJs are male and 17% are female. Three key features of ESFJ are: practical, selfless and sociable. About 12% of the population has this personality. ESFJs want to serve others and are serious about making commitments. 

They are very good at teamwork, they are always the ones who feel the tension and dissonance of the other members of the group. They are very traditional, doing their best to support and protect the rights and the law. People with this type of personality also tend to be very devoted, whether they are playing the host of a party or a social worker. It is quite easy to recognize ESFJs in social events - they will arrange enough time to chat with everyone.

The famous ESFJs

• Harry S. Truman - The 33rd president of the United States;

• Gerald Ford - The 38th president of the United States;

• Desmond Tutu - An anti-apartheid and human rights activist;

• Andrew Carnegie - Capitalist and Philanthropist;

• Sam Walton - Founder of Walmart;

• Andy Rooney - Journalist, Presenter, and Writer;

• Francis - The Pope;

• Rick Santorum -  An American politician and a member of the Republican Party.