16 Personality Test
A 16 personality test identifies 16 types, helping individuals understand behavior, communication, and decision-making. The Bridge Personality test is the most trusted version worldwide, scientifically designed for accurate hiring, employee development, and team-building results. Order tests for each candidate or choose a more affordable subscription through TestGroup's online platform.
What is a 16 Personality Test?
A 16 Personality Test is an online assessment that identifies 16 personality types based on how people think, communicate and make decisions. TestGroup offers this test through The Bridge Personality, combining the 16 Jung personality types with the Big Five model. Organizations use it for recruitment, employee development and teamwork. The test takes around 45 minutes, with results available immediately. Advanced algorithms help detect inconsistent and socially desirable answers.
The four personality preferences behind the 16 personality types
The 16 personality types are based on four key personality preferences. These describe how people interact with others, process information, make decisions and approach their work. Each preference has two opposite sides, and the combination of these preferences determines one of the 16 personality types. The Bridge Personality from TestGroup measures these preferences to help organizations better understand personality differences in the workplace.
How to order the 16 Personality Test
Download the free 16 Types personality test guide
The Bridge Personality Candidate Book helps candidates better understand the results of their 16 Types Personality Test. It explains all 16 personality types in clear, practical language, including their strengths, communication style, work preferences and development opportunities. The book also covers the Big Five personality model, the 4-Colour Personality Test and the 34 personality dimensions. It is free to download and is a valuable guide for feedback sessions, coaching and personal development.
What are the 16 personality types?
16 personality types: The Analysts
The analysts are the first of the 16 categories—personalities of resourceful people who are frequently highly interested and continually looking for new information. The scholar is the first kind we come across in this category (INTJ). These are creative and strategic thinkers who are flexible with their strategies in different situations.
There's also the strategist to consider (INTP). These are very creative workers who have an unquenchable need for information—having leaders (ENTJ) as workers puts them in a stronger position to lead. They are courageous individuals who always discover or provide a solution.
The innovator is the last analyst in the group (ENTP). These are sharp, curious minds who will put you to the test intellectually.
16 personality types: The Diplomats
Diplomats are the next group of the 16 personalities. They are characterized by people who are quieter but may be incredibly creative. The first is the advisor (INFJ). An example of this type is employees who are often calmer and mysterious but who may still be incredibly motivating.
Aside from the lawyer, there is also the idealist (INFP). They are very poetic, generous, selfless, and always have a good objective in mind. The protagonist is whichever among the diplomats is more of a leader type (ENFJ). ENFJs are friendly, outgoing and inspiring people who enjoy helping others. They are good communicators and connect easily with different personalities. They care about people, have strong values and often put others' needs first. ENFJs tend to trust their feelings and intuition rather than rely only on logic. They enjoy thinking about new ideas and future possibilities, but sometimes overlook practical details or what is happening right now.
Of course, lastly, there is the inspirer (ENFP), an energetic, creative, and social worker who is always happy to see you smile.
16 personality types: The Sentries
The sentries are the third of the 16 personality types. They are realistic and motivated individuals that would be beneficial to any firm. Whoever has a Realist (ISTJ) on their team should expect dependability, as well as a realistic, fact-based perspective. ISTJs are practical, responsible and reliable people who value tradition, honesty and hard work. They tend to be quiet, serious and organized, preferring clear rules and routines. ISTJs are patient, calm and confident, and they take their responsibilities seriously. Although they may seem distant or difficult to approach at first, they are usually loyal and dependable once you get to know them.
Carers (ISFJ) are devoted, caring guardians who, as the name implies, go to great lengths to protect their loved ones. The Decision-makers are, not surprisingly, the leaders of the Sentries’ group (ESTJ). They are the best personalities to put in a managerial position since they are unrivaled.
The Service Provider is the final class of sentry (ESFJ). These are workers who are always willing to assist. They are highly compassionate and, since they are so gregarious, they are often quite popular.
16 personality types: The Scouts
Scouts can be found in the last category of the 16 types. They are people who are very active and impulsive and who are constantly eager to try new things, such as the Solver (ISTP), who is swift with numerous instruments and tools and brave and practical.
Peacemakers (ISFP), on the other hand, are versatile and endearing performers. They are constantly up for new experiences. Anyone who works with Doers (ESTP) knows how much they appreciate living on the edge all the time. They are athletic but also incredibly intelligent and wise.
The Performer is the final of the 16 categories (ESFP). The name says it all: there’s never a dull moment with them! Entertainers are outgoing, lively folks who are always ready for a team-building activity or a Friday night drink.
Example Report of the 16 Personality Test
You can view a sample report of the 16 personality test here. This report starts with the scores on the 34 Big Five competencies, which you can match with almost any job description. Then you see the Jung Type of the participant. The report concludes with the scores on 8 general competencies.
16 personality test: The Bridge Personality
The Bridge Personality is a Jung personality test designed primarily for use in the workplace. This intelligent test guarantees that the applicant is only asked questions that are relevant to them. The Bridge Personality test employs algorithms that alter the questions in the exam if the subject attempts to 'steer' the test or fill it in with socially acceptable answers.
Features of the 16 personality test
Has your candidate been truthful? Learn more about Normative-Ipsative Split Technology®.
Normative-Ipsative split technology® is used in tests like The Bridge Personality. This test uses artificial intelligence to help understand how people react in different situations. Normative-Ipsative splits® show how much a person's responses fit with accepted norms based on their skills. This allows you to see where a candidate hesitated or tried to answer in a way that seems socially acceptable. This tool is essential for choosing the right applicants.
Personality Type ISTJ: The Realist
Individuals characterized as the Realist (ISTJ) approach things thoroughly and are known for being reliable and serious. They like solving problems and tracking their progress with clear facts. They often work quietly and value traditions and stability. ISTJs are organized, dedicated to their work, and able to focus well. They stick to their goals, and with their perseverance and determination, they can achieve what they set out to do.
Personality Type ISTP: The Solver
Solvers (ISTP) are often quiet and level-headed individuals who are straightforward and logical in their thinking. ISTPs are practical, curious and independent people who enjoy solving problems. They like sharing their knowledge and are good at understanding how things work. ISTPs stay calm under pressure and adapt quickly to new situations. They prefer to think things through before making decisions and dislike strict rules and routines. They are good at finding logical solutions and taking action when needed.
Personality Type ISFJ: The Carer
Carers (ISFJ) are known to be warm-hearted, loyal, and careful people. ISFJs are caring, reliable and responsible people who enjoy helping others. They prefer a structured environment with clear rules and routines. ISFJs work carefully, pay attention to details and like making sure everything runs smoothly. They are sensitive to other people's feelings and often put others' needs before their own. Although they tend to be quiet and avoid conflict, they are loyal, supportive and hardworking.
Personality Type ISFP: The Peacemaker
Peacemakers (ISFP) are often quiet and thoughtful, sensitive and kind by nature. ISFPs are friendly, creative and flexible people who prefer harmony over conflict. They value loyalty, teamwork and personal freedom. ISFPs are modest about their abilities and enjoy exploring new ideas and experiences. Although they are open-minded and easygoing, they stand up for what matters to them. They work best in supportive teams where people help each other rather than compete.
Personality Type INFJ: The Advisor
Advisors (INFJ) are known as quiet, yet influential and creative individuals with a strong sensitivity to the feelings of others. INFJs are caring, creative and determined people with strong values. They enjoy helping others and making a positive difference. They prefer to follow their own path and often have clear ideas about improving things. Although they understand others well, they share their deepest thoughts only with people they trust.
Personality Type INFP: The Idealist
Idealists (INFP) are individuals with a strong personal ethic, who are loyal to the values and people they consider important. INFPs are creative, thoughtful and idealistic people who want to make a positive difference. They enjoy helping others and exploring new ideas. Although they may seem quiet or shy, they have strong values and beliefs. INFPs are flexible, curious and determined to stay true to what matters to them.
Personality Type INTJ: The Scholar
Scholars (INTJ) are independent thinkers, often with an original perspective on matters. INTJs are independent, analytical and ambitious people who enjoy solving complex problems. They think strategically, plan ahead and set high standards for themselves and others. INTJs value knowledge, efficiency and clear goals. Although they may seem quiet or reserved, they are confident in their ideas and determined to achieve their goals.
INTP Personality Type: The Strategist
The Strategist (INTP) is a thinker who prefers to get lost in the world of ideas and theories. INTPs are curious, independent and analytical people who enjoy solving complex problems. They think creatively, spot patterns and like exploring new ideas. INTPs value knowledge and freedom and dislike strict routines. Although they may seem quiet or distracted, they are flexible thinkers who prefer logic over emotions.
ESTP Personality Type: The Doer
The Doer (ESTP) is known for their dynamic and friendly character, often appreciated for their loyalty to friends and peers. ESTPs are energetic, confident and practical people who enjoy taking action. They solve problems quickly, adapt easily and stay calm under pressure. ESTPs like challenges, excitement and working with others. They prefer direct communication over long explanations and are often the first to take action when something needs to be done.
ESTJ Personality Type: The Decision-maker
The Decision-maker (ESTJ) is known for a practical attitude, reliability, and strong organizational skills. ESTJs are practical, organized and hardworking people who focus on getting results. They value clear rules, efficiency and well-defined responsibilities. ESTJs enjoy planning, leading activities and making sure tasks are completed on time. They are confident, sociable and prefer facts and practical solutions over abstract ideas.
ESFP Personality Type: The Performer
ESFPs, often described as the "Entertainers" or "Performers" of the personality types, are indeed social beings who often are the center of attention and enjoy the stage of everyday life. ESFPs are friendly, enthusiastic and outgoing people who enjoy being around others. They are good at understanding people's needs and prefer practical activities over abstract ideas. ESFPs adapt easily to change, enjoy teamwork and like living in the moment. They bring energy to groups but may find long-term planning challenging.
ESFJ Personality Type: The Service provider
The Service provider (ESFJ) is often socially-inclined, focusing on harmony and cooperation. ESFJs are friendly, organized and responsible people who enjoy helping others. They value loyalty, teamwork and tradition and like creating a positive atmosphere. ESFJs are good at bringing people together and making sure everything runs smoothly. They prefer harmony over conflict and may find criticism difficult to handle.
Personality Type ENFP: The Inspirer
The Inspirer (ENFP) is known for their enthusiasm, idealism, creativity, and rich imagination. ENFPs are enthusiastic, creative and outgoing people who enjoy connecting with others. They are curious, open to new ideas and quick to take action. ENFPs value personal relationships and enjoy inspiring and motivating others. They are flexible and spontaneous but may sometimes act without planning ahead.
Personality Type ENFJ: The Coach
The Coach (ENFJ personality profile) is typically very social, empathetic, and engaged with people. ENFJs are social, supportive and inspiring people who enjoy working with others. They are good at motivating teams, understanding different viewpoints and bringing people together. ENFJs value feedback and cooperation but may put others' needs before their own. They prefer a positive work environment and can find conflict or a lack of appreciation difficult.
Personality Type ENTP: The Innovator
The Innovator (ENTP personality) is characterized by a strong tendency toward extraversion and intuitive behavior. ENTPs are curious, creative and independent people who enjoy new challenges and solving complex problems. They think quickly, spot opportunities and like sharing their ideas with others. ENTPs value freedom and flexibility and prefer improvising over following strict plans. They enjoy discussions and debates but can get bored with repetitive tasks and routines.
ENTJ Personality Type: The Leader
ENTJs, known as the Leaders among personality types, are known for their assertiveness, self-confidence, and excellent organizational skills. ENTJs are confident, ambitious and decisive people who enjoy leading others and achieving goals. They think strategically, make logical decisions and communicate directly. ENTJs value efficiency, organization and results. They are good at motivating teams but can sometimes seem impatient or demanding when things move too slowly.
16 Personality Test for teams: the team report
The 16 Personalities Team Report is designed to significantly enhance team collaboration. The team report helps managers understand how their team works together. It shows the personality types of all 16 team members, highlights the team's strengths and identifies areas for improvement. These insights help teams communicate better, solve problems and manage conflicts more effectively.
Example page from the 16 types team report
Sample reports: 16 personality test
For the 16 personality test, there are six different reports available. Reports are available for recruiting, coaching, sales, and teams. Custom reports are, of course, also available. The competencies that would be included in the report may then be selected.
Video: 16 Personalities do-it-yourself Team Workshop
The Bridge Personality Test's team report provides an instant, comprehensive snapshot of the 16 distinct personalities within your team. This forms an ideal foundation for conducting a team workshop.Such a workshop is instrumental in enhancing collaboration among team members and boosting collective performance. Now, with the do-it-yourself team workshop package, you have the capability to independently facilitate your own Bridge Personality team workshop.
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What is a 16 Personality Test?
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A 16 Personality Test is an online assessment that identifies 16 personality types based on how people think, communicate, make decisions and approach their work. TestGroup offers this assessment through The Bridge Personality, combining the 16 Jung personality types with the Big Five personality model. Organizations use it for recruitment, coaching, employee development and team building
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What are the 16 personality types?
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The 16 personality types are ISTJ, ISFJ, INFJ, INTJ, ISTP, ISFP, INFP, INTP, ESTP, ESFP, ENFP, ENTP, ESTJ, ESFJ, ENFJ and ENTJ. Each type represents a combination of four personality preferences that describe how people interact with others, process information, make decisions and organize their lives.
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How does the 16 Personality Test work?
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The 16 Personality Test measures four preferences: Extraversion or Introversion, Sensing or Intuition, Thinking or Feeling, and Judging or Perceiving. Together, these form one of 16 personality types. The Bridge Personality also measures 34 Big Five personality dimensions, providing a more detailed understanding of someone's behavior at work.
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Can a 16 Personality Test be used for recruitment?
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Yes. Organizations can use a 16 Personality Test to understand a candidate's communication style, work preferences and personality. For recruitment, TestGroup recommends The Bridge Personality because it combines the 16 Jung Types with the scientifically established Big Five model. This provides additional information about competencies relevant to a particular job.
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Is the 16 Personality Test scientifically validated?
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The 16 personality types are based on Jung's theory of psychological types. Although this model is useful for understanding personality preferences, its scientific support is more limited than that of the Big Five model. The Bridge Personality from TestGroup combines both approaches, allowing organizations to use Jung Types for personal development and Big Five scores for more detailed personality assessment.
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What is the difference between the 16 Personality Test and the Big Five
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The 16 Personality Test groups people into 16 types based on four personality preferences. The Big Five measures personality on five broad dimensions, providing scores rather than fixed categories. The Bridge Personality combines both models, so organizations can explore personality types while also measuring 34 specific personality dimensions.
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How long does the 16 Personality Test take?
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The online 16 Personality Test from TestGroup takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. Candidates can complete The Bridge Personality remotely using a computer or laptop. Once the assessment is finished, the personality report is immediately available to the organization.
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What information is included in the 16 Personality Test report?
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The Bridge Personality report identifies the participant's Jung personality type and explains their communication style, strengths, work preferences and potential development areas. Depending on the selected report, organizations also receive Big Five scores, competency scores and practical recommendations for recruitment, coaching and employee development.
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Can candidates manipulate their answers on a 16 Personality Test?
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Candidates may try to present themselves more positively when completing a personality test. The Bridge Personality uses Normative-Ipsative Split Technology® to identify inconsistent and socially desirable response patterns. This helps organizations evaluate the reliability of the answers, although no personality assessment can completely eliminate response manipulation.
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Can the 16 Personality Test improve teamwork?
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Yes. Understanding personality differences can help employees communicate more effectively and work better together. The Bridge Personality Team Report shows the personality types within a team, highlights differences in working styles and identifies opportunities for improvement. Managers can use these insights during team workshops, coaching and development sessions.
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How is The Bridge Personality different from free 16 personality tests?
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Many free 16 personality tests focus mainly on identifying a personality type and providing a general description. The Bridge Personality goes further by combining the 16 Jung Types with 34 Big Five personality dimensions, competency scores and response consistency checks. This makes it suitable for professional applications such as recruitment, coaching and team development.
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Can a 16 Personality Test predict job performance?
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A 16 Personality Test can provide useful information about work preferences and behavior, but personality type alone cannot reliably predict job performance. For recruitment, organizations should also consider relevant competencies, experience and cognitive abilities. TestGroup offers The Bridge Ability Suite alongside The Bridge Personality to provide a broader assessment of candidates.
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Is the 16 Personality Test suitable for career development?
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Yes. The 16 Personality Test helps employees understand their strengths, preferences and preferred working environment. Coaches and HR professionals can use these insights to discuss career opportunities and development goals. For more detailed career guidance, TestGroup also offers The Bridge Career, which measures career interests and preferences.
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Is the 16 Personality Test available in different languages?
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Yes. The Bridge Personality is available in multiple languages, including English, Dutch, German, French and Spanish. This allows international organizations to assess candidates and employees in their preferred language and use the results across different countries.
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How can organizations order a 16 Personality Test?
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Organizations can order The Bridge Personality from TestGroup for individual candidates or employees. After completing the assessment, the results are available in an online report. Companies that regularly use personality tests can also choose a subscription to the Bridge Assessment Platform, allowing them to manage assessments and reports through their own account.