Know Your True Colors

Temperament testing can improve team dynamics and communication.

“Oh, stop being so green,” a veterinary technician said jokingly when her boss grew impatient with a detailed explanation of deciding whether to do a test on a patient. “I just want to find out if the test got done, yes or no?” the veterinarian replied. “I’m sorry if I hurt the feelings of any of you blues and golds.”

Such “colorful” conversations could become the norm at your practice if you introduce temperament testing for your team. Benefits can include improved team dynamics and cohesiveness.

What colors are you?

For example, a two-page questionnaire called the Spectrum Development Personality Inventory sorts people into four basic colors:

• Green: rational, intelligent, objective, curious, analytical, perfectionist, innovative, logical, matter of fact, emotionally detached, independent thinkers who question authority and value knowledge, facts, autonomy and clarity.
• Gold: goal-oriented, punctual, organized, reliable, dedicated, helpful, prepared, black-and-white thinkers and team players who value stability, structure, rules, collaboration and commitment.
• Blue: emotional, nurturing, sympathetic, caring, relaxed, imaginative, idealistic, “people person” optimists who seek acceptance and approval, avoid conflict and discord, and value relationships, peace and harmony.
• Orange: free, energetic, spontaneous, charismatic, humorous, resilient, persuasive, fun, flexible, courageous, hands-on, competitive, generous adventure-seekers who want immediate results, thrive on crisis, need movement and value variety.

The central theory of temperament tests is that most people have one or two dominant personality styles that define their approach to relationships and work. Becoming aware of each other’s temperament colors may improve team dynamics and help resolve conflicts.

After a team takes the test, people often realize the problem they are having with each other is due to basic personality differences. In turn, a happy team often translates to staff retention and satisfied clients.