By Donna Dunning

How to share creative ideas so others will listen

Those who prefer ENFP and ENTP have a dominant function of Extraverted Intuition (Ne). I use the name Explorer for people who share this dominant function.

ENFPs and ENTPs like to approach the world in an open-ended, exploratory way. They seek innovation, and often like to imagine, design, and create new ideas and ways of doing things.

Explorers are usually eager to share their new ideas and are often enthusiastic and convincing.

However, sometimes others, rather than appreciating the Explorers’ insights, may see them as unrealistic or overly optimistic.

Here are a few tips to help Explorers get their ideas across to others.

• Tone down your enthusiasm. ENFPs may present their ideas in a passionate, excited manner and ENTPs may be forceful and convinced about their thoughts. Sometimes others interpret this as an “over-sell”.

• Don’t ignore or minimize the current realities. Although you likely start with ideas and a vision for the future, others start with what is. They need to know you are aware of, and considering, all of the roadblocks and challenges that may get in the way.

• Add in more details. You may provide broad brush-strokes for your ideas, but others may need concrete steps and plans. This provides them with the information they need to see how your ideas can be implemented.

By following these tips, your ideas will more likely be heard and adopted by others. Happy innovating!

Resources

For more thoughts on communicating well, read Introduction to Type and Communication.

If you live in the USA, Introduction to Type and Communication is now available on Kindle.