Imagine if you could unlock the full potential of each team member – not by working harder, but by working smarter. What if, instead of trying to mold your team into a one-size-fits-all approach, you could use the natural forces to create a workplace where everyone thrives?

By discovering your employees' unique traits, preferences, and work styles, you can align their strengths with roles that position them—and your business—for success. It's not just about doing more; it's about creating a culture where everyone feels valued, engaged and empowered to contribute their best work.

As the founder of ButterflyMXan access control company with over 200 employees, I've learned how to do this to create harmoniously functioning teams. By harnessing individual strengths, workers are more productive, innovative and collaborative. When leaders take the time to get to know their people more deeply, they build trust, reduce friction, and unlock a synergy that transforms good teams into great ones.

Related: 3 ways to learn more about your team and how they work

The science of personality types

Tools like the Myers-Briggs (MBTI), DiSC or Big Five personality traits aren't just new buzzwords – they're backed by decades of research on how personality affects behavior and performance. These frameworks provide a structured way to understand how people think, communicate and solve problems.

So why do they work? Personality assessments reveal much more than surface-level features. They reveal communication preferences (detailed versus broad instructions), problem-solving styles (those who immerse themselves in data versus those who trust their instincts), and even work environment preferences (collaborative versus solitary). With this knowledge, leaders can create an environment where everyone performs at their best.

However, let's clear up a common misconception: Personality assessments are starting points, not rigid definitions. They are not about locking people in boxes, but about opening doors. Everyone is unique and these tools help you start the conversation to better understand, motivate and support your team.

Identifying strengths through personality types

Once you understand personality types, the next step is to identify your team members' strengths.

Each personality brings unique value to the table:

• extrovert excel in client-facing roles, brainstorming sessions, and group projects. They bring energy and enthusiasm that can motivate a team.

• Detail-oriented individuals excel in areas such as project management and quality assurance, where accuracy and organization are critical.

• Big picture thinkers thrive on strategy and innovation, tackling abstract challenges and envisioning long-term goals.

For example, imagine a property management company that needs help meeting tight deadlines. One astute manager noticed that a team member who loved structure and deadlines excelled when given detailed project plans. Meanwhile, another, known for creative problem solving, thrived when tasked with coming up with solutions to obstacles.

By aligning these tasks with their natural strengths, the manager increased efficiency and improved team morale. Identifying strengths isn't just about improving productivity – it's about helping people feel seen, valued and able to achieve their best work.

Related: How leaders can use the Myers-Briggs, DISC and FIRO-B tests to drive corporate culture

Using personality types to maximize team performance

Tailored leadership:

Understanding personality types allows leaders to align tasks with individual preferences. If someone thrives in a structured environment, give them a detailed roadmap. But if they prefer creative freedom, give them a clear objective and let them run with it. By adapting your leadership style, you empower every team member feels supported and empowered.

Increasing cooperation:

When leaders strategically align teammates with complementary strengths, the results can be transformative. For example, pairing a visionary with a detail-oriented planner can lead to balanced decision-making and flawless execution. By appreciating the differences, you encourage COOPERATION instead of conflict.

Motivation strategies:

Personality insights also help you motivate your team. Does an employee thrive on public recognition? Celebrate their victories at team meetings. Do they prefer quiet acquaintance? Send them a personalized note of appreciation. When leaders motivate authentically, team members are more engaged and loyal.

The challenges of personality-based leadership

While personality-based leadership offers many benefits, it has its challenges.

• Avoiding pitfalls: Don't assign employees to specific roles based solely on their personality type. People are multi-faceted and roles must evolve as their skills grow.

• Balancing Powers and Growth: Encourage employees to tap into their strengths while stepping outside of them comfort zones. For example, introverts who prefer solitary work may benefit from occasional group projects to build communication skills.

By using personality insights as a guide—not a rulebook—you'll strike the right balance between leveraging strengths and fostering growth.

Action steps for leaders

To integrate personality-based strategies into your leadership stylefollow these steps:

1. Choose the right tool: Whether it's the MBTI, DiSC, or another framework, choose an assessment that aligns with your organization's goals.

2. Facilitate open discussions: Share the results with your team and invite them to discuss how these insights reflect their own work style.

3. Align roles with strengths: Use knowledge to assign tasks and responsibilities that fit each team member's natural abilities.

4. Review and adapt: Re-evaluate periodically. Teams evolve, and so should your strategies.

Implementing these steps doesn't require an overhaul—just a willingness to adapt and prioritize your team's needs.

Related: How to manage these 6 different personality types in the workplace

Your team's greatest asset isn't just their skill set; it is the unique perspectives and energy that each individual brings. Taking time for it understand their personality typesyou're not just building a more effective team—you're creating a workplace where people feel valued, motivated, and inspired to do their best.

Explore personality assessments, start the conversation, and watch your team transform into a powerhouse of collaboration, innovation, and success.