Working at Home or in an Office

With the gasoline crunch, some companies are encouraging workers to do part of their work at home and part of their work in the office. Also some parents want to work from home so they can also take care of their offspring. Here's some tips for the various personality styles with a label showing how much time at the office (% O) and how much time at home (% H) could work for them. For all types face-to-face time in an office is necessary if you want to have a fair deal when it is time for a raise or promotion.

80% O - 20% H: The most directive styles of the four personality groups need to have some way where they can take charge, at least occasionally. These are the Guardian Supervisor (ESTJ), the Artisan Promoter (ESTP), the Idealist Teacher (ENFJ), and the Rational Fieldmarshal (ENTJ). So they may need to spend more time with others to exercise their leadership skills. In fact, when they retire, they need to become active in groups so they don't drive their spouses crazy by ordering them around.

70% O - 30% H: The remaining four extraverted types also need people-contact to enjoy their jobs. They are the Guardian Provider (ESFJ), Artisan Performer (ESFP), Idealist Champion (ENFP), and Rational Inventor (ENTP). The first three need socialization with others to be able to enjoy their jobs, while the last needs to have people around so they can test out their inventive ideas. This group is more about passing along information than being directive.

50% O - 50% H: The introverted directive types will give directives when necessary, but also want some time alone. They are the Guardian Inspector (ISTJ), Artisan Crafter (ISTP), Rational Mastermind (INTJ) and Idealist Counselor (INFJ). All like to have at least some influence over events, plans, or actions. The first three all need to be able to have their ideas considered for improvements of procedures or systems while the last need to have their suggestions considered to influence people systems.

30% O - 70% H: The introverted informative types have many differing motivations. They are the Guardian Protector (ISFJ), Artisan Composer (ISFP), Idealist Healer (INFP), and the Rational Architect (INTP). The last three need a great deal of freedom and autonomy in their work. The Guardian Protector needs control over a specific territory and their home is their castle. At times all will need to increase their office time so their work is considered seriously.

The percentages given are guidelines and can be easily changed due to the company's needs or the individual's needs. If you do decide to work from home, you'll find that many companies have policies and procedures governing working at home. You'll need to set some family ground rules so you can be productive. Spend some time Googling the internet about advice for people who work from home so you'll be well prepared for this change.