How to Spot an INTJ

Kevin Price, Editor at Large for USA Business Radio and Host of the Price of Business Show, has recently become hooked on Quora.  In addition to daily hosting the Price of Business, Kevin has numerous writing obligations on this and other sites for which he serves as an editor and with his syndicated column, so we decided that if he’s going to write at Quora, he is going to share that content on this website.  If you are on Quora, make sure to follow Kevin.  You can check out his page here.

Kevin’s hot topics on Quora are history, free market economics, philosophy, and Myers Briggs typology, and many others.  The following is one of his recent answers to the question in the title.

Since most of the answers I see to this question tend to focus on what is going on in the INTJ’s head (making it impossible to “spot” for an outsider), I will try to answer your actual question. As an INTJ and as a friend of others with that type:

• INTJs are quiet in groups, until they know them (and then mysteriously become in charge).
• INTJs are excellent at initially being very friendly and engaging with individuals. Many believe they are actually extroverted, but most INTJs are simply trying to measure the utility of the potential relationship. I don’t mean that in an ugly “user” sort of way, per se (though that does happen), but INTJs are all about activities and relationships that “make sense.” Thus, getting friendly fast can help an INTJ size things up.
• INTJs are often excellent ad lib speakers. I speak professionally for a living and usually have no more than 3 bullet points on an index card for a 45 minute speech. I cannot recall the last time I actually wrote a speech. Most of my presentations do not come with any notes at all.
• INTJs are problem solvers and often chime in with innovative and resourceful ideas when they hear a person has an issue, even if they were not solicited. However, since INTJs are very practical and like to keep to their selves (as one of the two most introverted personality types), their suggestions rarely include getting their own hands dirty. Furthermore, they get satisfaction from seeing people solve their own problems.
• INTJs loathe small talk. If a conversation lingers with no clear meaning, expect them to politely exit or get distracted with an electronic device as they try to escape.
• INTJs hate whining. They are all about problem solving. If people want to stay stuck in the problem, they will gladly allow them to do that on their own. Watch them smile and exit the conversation.

These are just… (READ MORE, FOLLOW Kevin on Quora, learn more about his content).