Not Type A or B? You May Have a Type C Personality

In the world of psychology and personality tests, Type A and Type B personalities get most of the attention, which is not surprising, considering that people who fall into these two categories have distinct traits. But did you know there are other personality types too, including a Type C personality, which is characterized by conscientiousness, analytical thinking, and a tendency toward isolation and anxiety? While not as rare as a Type D personality, Type C’s often get overlooked.

Like with all personality styles, people who identify with having mostly Type C personality traits have both strengths and weaknesses, such as being detail-oriented, dependable, and cautious, but also potentially neurotic and somewhat unskilled socially and emotionally. While you can think of a Type A personality as being the “directors” in a group and Type B’s as being the “socializers,” Type C’s are said to be the “thinkers”

While there haven’t been many reliable studies looking at the prevalence of different personality types, psychologists estimate that 30% of the population may be mostly Type C. Type C’s are also commonly confused with Type A’s because both can be perfectionistic. 

Considering that Type C’s have certain positive characteristics and skills, but also sensitivities and room for improvement in some areas, it’s helpful for Type C people, as well as their employers and leaders, to understand how this personality tends to think and behave. In this article, discover how Type C people can thrive at work and overcome challenges.

What is a Type C Personality?

Type C personalities usually take an analytical approach to problems. They love to think in terms of systems, and they usually take their time when making important decisions, often going the distance when it comes to research and information gathering. People with Type C personalities are often described as being precise, logical, and prone to stress and emotional suppression. They thrive in stable, predictable environments and shy away from being overly emotional or impulsive.

Here are some common traits that have been associated with Type C:

• Analytical: A hallmark trait of being Type C is being logical and driven by facts. They value accuracy and facts rather than using intuition or too much creativity.
• Introverted and independent: Type C’s tend to be introverted, quiet, and reserved. They may prefer to spend time alone or in small groups rather than working with teams or in busy social settings. They usually ask questions and learn from others instead of dominating conversations.
• Conscientious: They’re detail-oriented, precise, and organized, which makes them reliable workers. They can be counted on to act predictably and consistently, making them good team players.
• Prepared: Type C’s know how to plan for things ahead of time, pay attention to timelines, and deliver on tasks. Because they like being prepared, they tend to dislike change, situations that feel out of control, and unpredictability. 
• Emotionally restrained: Some Type C people have difficulty expressing their emotions, making them seem somewhat cold, reserved, detached, and disengaged. They may hold back from saying how they really feel or suppress their feelings to maintain professionalism and control. 
• Prone to anxiety and worry: It’s common for Type C’s to internalize stress, which can put them at increased risk for issues such as anger, resentment, and possibly certain health problems.
• Skeptical: If something can’t be proven and isn’t based on concrete facts and evidence, Type C’s may not believe it. They usually aren’t drawn to people who are overly emotional or unstable either. 

What Are Other Names for a Type C Personality?

Meyer Friedman and Ray Rosenman were two cardiologists who first identified prominent personality types with distinct traits—what they called Type A and B. The concept of a Type C personality was then introduced later to describe people similar to a Type A personality, but different in some ways. 

The idea of Type C as a distinct personality type has been debated in the field of psychology, with some researchers arguing that it is not a clearly defined personality type, but rather a combination of traits that can be found in other personality types. 

Personality types, including Type C, also go by other names depending on the psychological theory and classification system used. For example, DISC Theory, created by Dr. William Marston, also identifies a Type C personality as one that’s analytical and focused on thinking instead of feeling. According to the Myers-Briggs personality test, Type C’s are those that fall into these categories: ESTJ, ESFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ, or those who judge and analyze rather than rely on emotion and intuition.

Strengths and Weaknesses of a Type C at Work

In the workplace, Type C personalities tend to have the following strengths:

• They pay attention to details and deadlines: These characteristics are valuable in many fields, such as science, accounting, or engineering.
• They have high standards for themselves: Type C’s strive for excellence and even perfection in their work, so they’re usually hard-working and focused on progress and growth.
• They’re good problem solvers: Being analytical makes them great at problem-solving and critical thinking. They can even find creative solutions for problems using facts and existing concepts.
• They can be patient: This personality style is associated with being both patient and persistent in their approach to tasks and achieving goals over time.
• They’re diplomatic and good leaders: They are often good at listening and understanding different perspectives, which can make them effective mediators and negotiators.

On the other hand, Type C’s may struggle in these situations:

• Prone to stress and feeling overwhelmed: Because Type C’s like predictability and performing well, they can be thrown off when things don’t go according to plan. 
• Trouble being flexible or adaptive: Related to the point above, Type C’s are not as good as shifting gears and coming up with solutions quickly as easily as Type B’s. This can make it hard for them to make quick decisions, as their analytical nature can cause them to overanalyze situations, leading to indecisiveness or reluctance to choose between options.
• Can be risk-averse: Most Type C’s are cautious and risk-averse, preferring to stick with familiar routines. They’ll usually avoid taking chances and dislike making spur-of-the-moment or impulsive decisions. Being somewhat closed off can make it difficult for them to pursue new opportunities or take on new challenges.
• Can’t always emphasize easily: Some Types C’s have a hard time seeing other people’s perspectives. They might struggle to understand their own emotional needs, and the needs of others.
• Difficulty with social interactions and communication: People who are Type C can find it hard to open up and build relationships because they feel uncomfortable relying on others or speaking up. 
• Hard time delegating tasks: They may have difficulty delegating tasks to others, as they may feel that only they can do the job correctly.

How Type C’s Do Their Best Work 

If you’re a Type C, you’re likely to be motivated by:

• Performing well and completing tasks on time.
• Contributing something useful and significant to projects. 
• Meeting goals by taking necessary, thought-out steps.
• Following the rules and protocols closely.
• Being prepared.
• Continuously making progress.
• Keeping order and peace so things are stable and predictable.

Type C’s work best with others, such as their coworkers and managers, when they keep the points below in mind. If you’re Type C yourself, here’s how you can communicate with your coworkers about how you work best based on your expectations and values: 

• Pay attention to details, since Type C’s notice the small things.
• Prepare in advance so projects are organized.
• Base making decisions on reason and provide evidence to back up your opinions.
• Avoid being too vague when giving directions—provide clear instructions and expectations.
• Don’t be too critical since Types C’s can be sensitive to negative feedback. While providing constructive feedback is important, do so in a thoughtful, empathetic way.
• Don’t push too hard to become close with a Type C right away. Give them space and time to open up so they feel comfortable slowly forming a bond.

Areas of Growth for Type C Personality Types

There are many admirable qualities that Type C people have. Yet, they can improve certain aspects of their personalities, especially those related to adaptability and socializing.

Here are some ways that Type C’s can work on their weaknesses and find balance with their personalities: 

• Avoid a perfectionist mindset: Perfectionism can be problematic when it becomes excessive and starts to negatively affect a person’s mental health and functioning. For instance, it can lead to burnout, exhaustion, anxiety, and procrastination, while interfering with relationships, innovation, and creativity. To tackle perfectionism, focus on self-compassion, self-awareness, and a willingness to accept imperfections, all of which fuel personal growth.
• Don’t be scared to lean on others: Type C’s who are very independent and introverted can benefit from asking for help and feedback, both critical aspects of adopting a growth mindset. Here are some tips for accepting feedback: Listen actively so you can understand others’ perspectives, ask questions if you need clarification, avoid being defensive, take some time to reflect on what was said and how it can be used to improve your work or behavior, and look for patterns so you know which behaviors you need to work on most.
• Understand that vulnerability builds relationships: Appearing stoic can help keep situations calm. However, to really build bonds, Type C’s need to learn to express themselves and open up. Being vulnerable isn’t a sign of weakness and can still be done in a professional, controlled manner, in which case it actually draws people in. Begin by sharing something small or low-risk to gain confidence. Be kind and understanding to yourself by viewing your weaknesses as a natural part of being human. Finally, take responsibility for your emotions to utilize them and improve.

Want to learn more about how positivity can boost your performance and success? Check out this article: “A Positive Mindset Will Transform Your Business and Lif