The Four Temperaments and Leadership

Although the two extrovert types, Raving Red and Yappy Yellow, are traditionally the apparent leaders, all temperaments can lead a team. It is a misconception that introverts do not make good leaders.

In her book Quiet Influence, Dr Jennifer Kahnweiler explains how introverts – the Green and Blues as we know them - can make a marked difference in the business and intellectual world. They are often thinkers and genuine problem solvers simply because they spend more time reflecting on important issues than talking about them.

Each temperament type has a unique and preferred way of leading. Yellow is a creative leader, Red focuses on productivity and getting the job done, Blue aims at perfection, and Green puts people first.

Each temperament has a challenge when leading a team. Yellow might get side-tracked by fun, lack of structure, and frustrating task-orientated team members. Red, focusing on the task, could easily hurt feelings and bulldoze soft-spoken members. This kind of action would result in losing valuable contributions from the other temperaments capable of having an input.

The two introvert types, Perfect Blue and Groovy Green, do not choose to be leaders simply because they don’t like the limelight. But as true thinkers, they certainly have a role to play and will be respected by their team members. Blue’s perfectionism could keep her from acting and make her reject all non-perfect suggestions. However, she would give proper structure to any project. Green has to conquer procrastination and his fear of conflict. His challenge is to leave his comfort zone and set clear boundaries when leading.



In summary, a balanced team requires the skills and strengths of all four temperament types. An effective leader would acknowledge this and combine both people- and task-oriented members to complement one another and get the job done in an effective way, employing everybody’s skills and talents.