INTJ-A

What is a INTJ?

Independent, exacting and quietly ambitious, the Strategist builds a theory of the problem early and works steadily towards it. They prefer to think alone, set high standards for themselves and others, and are impatient with vague plans and with meetings that go nowhere.

In Jung’s language the mind’s four main functions run in this order for a INTJ: Ni · Te · Fi · Se (dominant, auxiliary, tertiary, inferior). The first leads and the last is the least comfortable and shows up under stress.

The Anchored version: INTJ-A

The Anchored version of this type takes pressure in its stride. It recovers quickly from mistakes, worries little about what others think and trusts its ability to cope. The gift is calm and confidence; the risk is overlooking warnings that a more anxious colleague would have raised.

Compare with the INTJ-T version.

At work and in everyday life

Happiest with a clear objective, freedom to choose the method and few interruptions. Tends to improve any system they touch, whether or not anyone asked.

Negotiating and disagreeing

Prepares more thoroughly than the other side and has a plan for every branch. The risk is treating a negotiation as a puzzle and forgetting that the other party also needs to save face.

Under stress

Withdraws, becomes sharply critical and may over-control the details. Can swing into uncharacteristic impulsiveness or bursts of sensory indulgence when worn down.

Growing

• Say the reasoning aloud; people trust a plan they understand
• Ask one question about how others feel before the decision, not after
• Share credit and delegate something important on purpose

How to deal with a INTJ

If they are your boss

Give them a goal, a deadline and room to work; bring evidence, not enthusiasm; do not waste their time.

If they are your client or customer

Expect thorough questions and a wish to understand the strategy; be ready to defend your advice with reasons.

If they are your colleague

Reliable and sharp, but may need a nudge to share work in progress or to hear how others feel.

If you disagree with them

Formidable and well prepared. Do not bluff; find the one fact that changes their model.

Your mirror type, with every letter opposite, is the ESFP: The Performer.

If you work in law: the The Grand Strategist

Often drawn to complex commercial work, strategy-heavy litigation, appellate writing, tax, regulation and anything where a long game rewards careful design. May prefer a small team of equals to a crowded room.

At the negotiating table. Prepares more thoroughly than the other side and has a plan for every branch. The risk is treating a negotiation as a puzzle and forgetting that the other party also needs to save face.

These are tendencies, not rules: every type works in every area of law, and the best lawyers are often the ones who stretch beyond their type. Nothing here is career advice for any individual or a reason to choose or reject anyone.