After years of being totally compatible in almost every area, are Dave and Charlie discovering that they’re really quite different?
Spoiler alert!!! To fully appreciate this blog take just a minute and read our last blog that sets the stage for understanding the apparent conflict between Dave and Charlie and how they view each other.
After Dave erupted in utter disbelief which was turning into complete distain for the validity of the Myers-Briggs instrument we tried to calm things down long enough to turn this into a good learning opportunity. After a few false starts we finally hit on a question that fairly and accurately painted a picture of the differences between Dave and Charlie.
We asked Charlie if he felt he was located in an accurate position on the Deciding (Thinking-Feeling) scale now that he had learned the difference between the two approaches. With Dave still staring at him in disbelief Charlie indicated that he felt it was a fair and accurate assessment and he actually felt very comfortable with the outcome. Once again Dave couldn’t contain himself with a very loud “No Way!”
But then the question: Dave, what process do you use to purchase a new car? Dave was quick and precise; he would first determine the class of vehicle he currently needed (truck, SUV, sedan, etc), then he would research all new entries into the market, do a complete analysis of performance, maintenance and long-term care and finally use all the modern tools available on the web to find the absolute best price before finally approaching a dealership armed with all of the ammo he needed to make his purchase.
Charlie, what process do you use to purchase a new car? “Well, I’ve had one car salesman that I started using right out of college. He’s taken good care of me through the years and we’ve actually become pretty good friends. I trust him and I believe he has my best interest at heart so when he calls and says it’s time for me to purchase a new car, I ask him for his recommendations and have always purchased what he suggested. It’s always worked just fine for me.” Charlie made his decision based on the values of friendship, loyalty and trust. It works for him. Charlie comfortably fit on the Feeling side of the Deciding function.
Dave of course sat there with his mouth wide open. When he regained his composure enough to control of his jaw muscles, he finally said to Charlie “You have always seemed to have cars that fit your need and personality so I guess we can still be fishing buddies.”
Be very careful when you think you really know someone and their Myers-Briggs functions, they might just surprise you.