Extrovert Intuitive Pensive Perceptive Personality

ENTP Personality Characteristics

"Done" is perhaps the word that best describes ENTPs. A classic example of this type is the teacher who juggles his mind with a half-dozen ideas for research papers and proposals for grants while at the same time giving a highly entertaining lecture on an abstruse subject. So is the comedian whose satires are both funny and bitingly truthful.

ENTPs are usually quick verbally and cerebrally and usually love to argue - both arguing for arguing and demonstrating their debating skills. ENTPs also tend to have a wicked sense of humor and enjoy playing the devil's advocate. This sometimes confuses or even annoys those who do not understand or accept the concept of discussion as a sport.

ENTPs are both innovative and resourceful in problem solving just as they are in verbal gymnastics; however, from time to time they end up going overboard. ENTPs may be prone to "tricks" - especially taking shortcuts without regard to rules if appropriate - or their juggling may simply be so ambitious that they collapse.

Both at work and at home, ENTPs are very fond of "toys" - physical or intellectual - and the more sophisticated the better. However, once these toys have been "solved" or tired of them, they will replace them with new ones.

ENTPs are fundamentally optimistic, but despite this (perhaps because of it?) They can get short-tempered due to minor setbacks or drawbacks. They view great setbacks as challenges and face them with determination. ENTPs have little patience with those people they consider stubborn or unintelligent, and they don't keep their composure when it comes to showing it. However, they are usually great and even charming when they are not overwhelmed by life.

As for their relationships with others, ENTPs are able to create very affectionate ties out of the blue with their loved ones. Some seem apparently indifferent to their closest and dearest ones; Others are so demonstrative that they can scandalize co-workers who have only seen their professional side. ENTPs are also quick to spot a kindred spirit and are good at acquiring friends with similar temperaments and interests.

ENTPs may sometimes give the impression that they disregard much of the rest of humanity except as an audience - good, bad, or potential. This is generally unfair, but it can be difficult to get the attention of an ENTP when they are initially oblivious to your presence, especially for an Introvert.

The best way to communicate with an ENTP is to be direct. Don't do tricks, they will win. Don't "impose your authority", they just want to put you in your place. Do not apologize, you will be weak. Try saying, "I need / want to talk to you."

What is your personality type?  Find out by downloading Career Test

ENTP Career Options

In general, ENTPs develop successful careers in areas that require intense intellectual effort, a creative approach, and those that present an intellectual challenge. Due to the characteristics mentioned above, ENTPs are often found in research, development and analysis departments. ENTPs often make very successful careers in academia thanks to their strong and versatile thinking coupled with their great erudition.