StrengthsFinder vs MBTI: Which Should You Take?

Personality assessments are powerful tools for self-discovery, but not all tests are created for the same purpose. Two of the most popular—Clifton StrengthsFinder and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)—offer distinct frameworks. So how do you know which is right for you?

1. Purpose and Philosophy

While both tools aim to help people understand themselves better, their foundational goals differ:

  • StrengthsFinder: Focuses on identifying your top natural talents so you can develop them into strengths and apply them in work and life.
  • MBTI: Categorizes your personality into one of 16 types based on preferences in how you perceive the world and make decisions.

2. What You Learn

StrengthsFinder MBTI
Your top 5 of 34 talent themes Your 4-letter type (e.g., INFP, ESTJ)
Actionable insights for performance and growth Understanding of personality patterns and preferences
Workplace- and development-focused More commonly used for communication and team dynamics

3. Application at Work

If you're looking to grow professionally, StrengthsFinder offers a clearer roadmap:

  • Helps you align your role with your top talents
  • Improves team collaboration through strength diversity
  • Provides language for personal branding and development conversations

MBTI is better for understanding communication styles, decision-making preferences, and general personality fit within teams.

4. Scientific Backing and Criticism

Both tools have faced scrutiny, but in different ways:

  • StrengthsFinder: Based on Gallup’s research into human potential. Critics note it's less useful for diagnosing weaknesses.
  • MBTI: Widely used but often criticized for lack of scientific reliability. Many people score differently on repeat assessments.

5. Which One Should You Take?

It depends on your goals:

  • Choose StrengthsFinder if you want:
    • Actionable career insights
    • Ways to improve performance at work
    • A focus on what you do best
  • Choose MBTI if you want:
    • A general understanding of personality patterns
    • Better team and relationship awareness
    • Language to describe how you process the world

Pro Tip: Many people take both. Use StrengthsFinder for development and MBTI for self-reflection and communication awareness.

Final Thoughts

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. StrengthsFinder gives you a targeted development map, while MBTI offers a broad personality overview. Whichever you choose, the real value lies in applying the insights to your life and work.

Curious about your natural strengths? Take our free StrengthsFinder assessment and start your journey today.