The ENTJ personality type (also called The General) is one of the most determined, optimistic, pragmatic, and active of all 16 personality types. These people are strategic leaders, and authority comes naturally to them. They often prioritize work over pleasure so, when it comes to getting the job done, they’re reliable and don’t need external motivation. Many ENTJs are workaholics, and they’re the personality type to experience burnouts the most. Nevertheless, some of the ENTJ strengths include the ability to devise effective plans and strategies, focus on goals, and manage their time well.
ENTJs are quick to notice people’s flaws and are able to find immediate and practical solutions to problems. They see themselves as a manager, organizing people and processes to achieve their personal growth. But that doesn’t only apply to their professional life. ENTJs project those qualities in their personal life as well.
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Every personality type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Rational types like the ENTJ tend to be limited in their ability to console and comfort others emotionally. When it comes to issues causing emotional distress in others, ENTJs focus on what can be done to improve the situation. However, they can easily overlook people’s emotional needs. After all, ENTJs are analytical and objective and like to bring order to the world around them.
ENTJ Characteristics
ENTJ stands for Extroverted (E), Intuitive (N), Thinking (T), and Judging (J). It’s hard not to notice ENTJs in social settings, since they’re quick to express their traits and like to show their true selves. Here’s a short checklist with some of the most emblematic ENTJ characteristics:
- Argumentative, outspoken, and assertive
- Disputatious and love verbal expression
- Extroverted, and will thrive in social settings
- Hard-working, efficient, ambitious, and dedicated
- Direct and frank, and communicate in a straightforward manner
- Controlling and intimidating
- Trustworthy and take criticisms well
- Strong leaders and extremely competitive
How do ENTJs Compare to Other Personality Types?
Each personality type is made up of a combination of different preferences. The different combinations of these preferences make each type unique in its own way. These preferences are:
- Extroversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)
- Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)
- Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)
- Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)
Apart from that, there are also different cognitive functions. These functions determine how each personality type engages with the world around them. Each function is directed outward toward people and surroundings (Extroverted) or inward toward a person’s thoughts (Introverted). Given these differences, we figured that the best way to illustrate how to best spot an ENTJs was to compare them to the other 15 personality types.
ENTJs vs SJ Temperament Types
SJ temperament types (ESTJ, ESFJ, ISTJ, and ISFJ) are driven by their Sensing and Judging preferences. People with an SJ temperament are melancholic and thoughtful. They’re rarely searching for new adventures and experiences, as they prefer to stay in their comfort zone. They’re motivated by a need to maintain security and they often set high standards for themselves. SJ temperament types tend to take life way too seriously and need to learn that there’s nothing wrong with letting go and having fun. It’s hard for ENTJs to connect with SJ temperament types since they have a completely different view on life. Let’s see how they compare to each one.
ENTJ vs ESTJ
The ESTJ personality type (also known as The Administrator) stands for tradition and order, and people of this type have a developed understanding of what is right, wrong, and socially acceptable. ESTJs embrace values of dignity, dedication, and honesty. They also possess strong leadership qualities and take pride in bringing people together and optimizing processes and relationships. They’re community organizers and stand up for rules, order, and authority. ESTJs have a rather orthodox approach to life and are opinionated individuals.
In their personal life, ESTJs like to lead the parade. They know exactly what they want from their relationships with people and communicate their desires in a direct and straightforward way. However, ESTJs don’t work alone. They’re extroverted individuals and have excellent communication skills. This part of their personality is mostly expressed in their work life. They’re natural-born leaders and don’t tolerate laziness or dishonesty.
ENTJs and ESTJs share some similar functions. They’re both Extroverted Thinking and Judging individuals and they often find common ground. Both types are hard workers and appreciate organization and dedication. However, ENTJs like to play by their own rules. If there’s something that ENTJs don’t agree with, they’ll be quick to ignore it and follow their own rules, which might create tension between these two types. However, the fact that they both have the ability to stay objective will help them to find a fair solution to their disagreement.
ENTJ vs ESFJ
The ESFJ personality type (also known as The Consul) is made of positive and outgoing people. Due to their Extroverted function, ESFJs like to spend time with others and they’re energized by communication and interaction. ESFJs have been described as a sensitive type, as they can’t ignore injustice and unkindness. If they experience insensitivity, even if it’s not directed toward them, they could easily get hurt. ESFJs have high values and standards and have a developed sense of morals and ethics. They also genuinely like being helpful and have the ability to see the best in people.
However, the fact that they’re so conscious of their surroundings could stress them out. Their kindness is often mistaken for weakness. And if they feel underappreciated they could overreact and present themselves as the victim. ESFJs are also often controlling and too sensitive to criticism. They’re not flexible and can’t handle change well. ESFJs easily develop insights into people and experiences and they truly care about others. However, if they don’t receive the same in return they might grow intolerant. Their biggest disadvantage is that they need constant approval. ESFJs want to be liked by others at any cost and they count on their kindness to do the job.
In contrast, ENTJs couldn’t care less about what people think about them. Their confidence helps them to accept and embrace their true self as they are, which is rarely bothered by other people’s opinions. Similar to ESFJs, ENTJs are social butterflies and thrive in social situations. However, ENTJs aren’t as aware of people’s needs and appreciate logic rather than emotions and feelings. Those two types could get along since they do share some similar preferences. But they’ll need to embrace their differences to have a meaningful relationship. If you want to know more about how ENTJs and ESFJs act in a relationship together, you might want to check out our article on ENTJ relationships.
ENTJ vs ISTJ
The ISTJ personality type (also known as The Archivist) is made of detail-oriented, organized, and logical individuals. They take life seriously and often have carefully determined goals and aspirations. ISTJs are observant people, who learn from the mistakes of others. They like to plan things out well in advance and rarely take risks. They want to have full control over their lives. Sometimes they find themselves unable to rest until the job is done or until they have set everything straight.
ISTJs have a developed sense of responsibility and respect traditions and laws. They follow the rules because they believe that they’re there for a reason. They also have a desire to maintain structure and get bothered when others don’t agree with that. In their worst form, ISTJs are judgmental toward other people and tend to blame them if they don’t share the same opinions.
ENTJs and ISTJs both share Thinking and Judging preferences, meaning that they have some common qualities in their characters. Both types are ruled by their head instead of their heart and make logical decisions. They’re critical thinkers and are oriented toward problem-solving. ENTJs and ISTJs are ambitious, structured, and organized. However, ENTJs are Extroverted, which means they get energized by being around people. On the other hand, ISTJs prefer to spend their time with fewer people and avoid large gatherings. Also, ISTJs prefer to live in the moment, while ENTJs are more future-oriented. Despite their differences, ISTJs and ENTJs could work well together.
ENTJ vs ISFJ
People with the ISFJ personality type (also known as The Defender) are humble, hard-working, and reliable. They’re organized and like to follow a specific approach in their work, as well as in their personal life. They’re in touch with their emotions and put great emphasis on personal feelings. ISFJs truly care about the people closest to them, to the point that they can neglect their own needs. They’re a sensitive type and are focused on developing relationships with people. Although they’re introverted, ISFJs are deeply empathetic. And that’s why it’s easy for people to take advantage of their dedication and humbleness. The Defender should be careful with who they chose to be around because it’s also sometimes hard for them to stand up for themselves.
Although both ENTJs and ISFJs are practical and organized in their intentions, these types are more different than similar. Unlike ENTJs, who are focused on development and innovation, ISFJs like to protect what is familiar and have a rather orthodox view of life. Also, ENTJs are emotionally unavailable and rarely know how to express their feelings. ISFJs are the polar opposite of that and find it difficult to connect with people who aren’t in touch with their emotions.
A relationship or friendship between an ENTJ and an ISFJ could be challenging. ENTJs are direct and straightforward in their communication, which could be perceived as insensitive. ISFJs are fragile and sometimes too sensitive. It’s also difficult for ISFJs to address conflict, so if they want to get along with ENTJs they should try to express their perspective in a way that ENTJs would understand.
ENTJ vs SP Temperament Types
SP temperament types (ESTP, ESFP, ISTP, and ISFP) are driven by the Sensing and Perceiving preferences. Types with an SP temperament can be best defined as the life of the party. They’re driven by fun and have a low tolerance for boredom. These people are highly communicative thrill-seekers who even love experimenting with dangerous behaviors. Although they’re friendly and approachable, they can be compulsive talkers who can’t shut up. Let’s explore how people with an SP temperament compare to ENTJs.
ENTJ vs ESTP
The ESTP personality type (also known as The Daredevil) is best described as a people magnet. ESTPs are decisive thinkers with strong people skills. They’re spontaneous risk-takers who want to enjoy life to the fullest. They’re disorganized and rarely follow any plans and structures. Despite that, it seems like things always work out for them one way or another. That’s partially due to the fact that they’re extremely positive, action-oriented people. If they see that things aren’t going as they thought they would, ESTPs will be quick to get over it and find something else to look forward to.
ESTPs believe that personal growth is rooted in change. They have the ability to adapt easily and want to experience as much as possible, no matter if it comes to their work or personal life. In a nutshell, ESTPs are charismatic thrill-seekers with excellent communication skills. However, they also have some weaknesses that can’t be ignored. For instance, ESTPs have difficulty with commitment. They’re too focused on the current moment and it’s hard for them to think about long-term plans.
In stark contrast, ESTJs are organized and get slightly anxious when they’re not in control of the situation. Although ENTJs often bring fresh new ideas and have a creative mind, they respect stability and rarely take risks. Compared to the here-and-now ESTP, ENTJs are future-oriented people, who like to plan things well in advance. Nevertheless, these two types aren’t as different as they might appear at first. Both of them like to be around people and get energized by interaction. Also, they both put greater emphasis on facts and logic than feelings and emotions. That being said, you might be wondering what a relationship between an ENTJ and an ESTP would look like.
ENTJ vs ESFP
People with the ESFP personality type (also known as The Entertainer) are friendly, outgoing, and likable. They love parties and enjoy the spotlight. They’re good at understanding people’s emotions and are able to respond to them in a practical way. ESFPs are supportive in their behavior and usually make good friends. They’re kind and thoughtful, and others feel naturally drawn to them. ESFPs have great interpersonal skills and get energized by spending time with other people.
ESFPs enjoy the moment and avoid thinking about the future. They’re spontaneous and energetic and have a positive view of life. ESFPs like to learn things on the go and they base their perceptions on experiences rather than theories and facts. Although their impulsive nature sometimes makes them look irresponsible, ESFPs are reasonable and ambitious. When it comes to solving problems they trust their instincts, and they’re confident with their abilities to handle a situation.
It seems like ENTJs and ESFPs are polar opposites. And that’s not far from the truth. For example, unlike the ENTJs, ESFPs don’t spend a lot of time planning and like to keep their options open. Another difference between them is their way of responding to conflict. ESFPs consider the emotional aspect of a situation, while ENTJs rely heavily on facts, disregarding others’ feelings. This might create some tension between them, as they’re both self-assured people and won’t just let it slide if they don’t agree with you.
ENTJ vs ISTP
The ISTP personality type (also known as The Tinkerer) is probably the most independent of all personality types. ISTPs know how to take care of themselves and don’t need other people’s support or approval. They’re results-oriented people and, if they encounter a problem, they’ll be quick to find a practical solution. ISTPs like to work with their hands and feel drawn to professions that involve logical thinking and tangible results.
ISTPs are easy-going and likable, but they’re also quiet and they feel uncomfortable when they’re the center of attention. They get energetically drained if they have to spend a lot of time surrounded by people, which is why, more often than not, they dislike parties and social gatherings. ISTPs hate small talk, so unless you have something meaningful to say don’t approach them. But that doesn’t mean they don’t know how to have fun. In fact, ISTPs actually enjoy new experiences and may even engage in risk-taking behaviors.
Compared to the ISTPs, who like to improvise, ENTJs are well organized and prefer to work with their minds rather than their hands. However, these two types aren’t as different as they might appear. They’re both self-confident, logical, and practical people. Although ENTJs are more ambitious, ISTPs also know how to get what they want. Neither type knows how to talk about their feelings, and it’s hard for them to express their emotions verbally. ISTPs are also known to have commitment issues.
ENTJ vs ISFP
People with the ISFP personality type (also known as The Adventurer) are sensitive, kind, quiet, and friendly. They’re very aware of their environment and reserved to the point that it can be hard to get to know them. ISFPs prefer to keep their circle small, and don’t have many friends. Although they have a strong need for personal space, they value their relationships with people. ISFPs are often good friends, lovers, and co-workers, and people like being around them.
ISFPs have a strong connection with nature and love animals. They often engage in activities and careers that are concerned with practical, real-world problems. ISFPs also have a developed intuition and approach life with their ‘gut feeling.’ In the eyes of the pragmatic ENTJ, ISFPs can seem delusional, and it’s hard for them to understand each other.
ENTJ vs NT Temperament Types
NT temperament types (ENTJ, ENTP, INTJ, and INTP) are driven by their Intuition and Perceiving preferences. These people are analytical problem-solvers, with strong leadership tendencies. They’re self-sufficient, logical, and value reason. Their critical thinking coupled with their future-oriented mindset usually takes them far in their professional life. In fact, ENTJs are the embodiment of the NT temperament. So let’s see how they connect with the other three types.
ENTJ vs ENTP
The ENTP personality type (also known as The Debater) is extroverted, so it’s no surprise that people with this type possess great people skills. They love communication and feel their best when they’re interacting with different people all the time. It’s also not a coincidence that ENTPs are referred to as The Debater – they genuinely love debating and find excitement in being argumentative. They can work well with words and they’re also excellent leaders and public speakers.
ENTPs and ENTJs are quite similar to each other. They share three of the same preferences – they’re both Extroverted, Intuitive, and Thinking. This means that they focus on the external world while living in the future making plans and wondering what it could be. Both types judge situations based on logic and have the ability to look at things objectively. ENTPs and ENTJs value imagination and creativity. They’re always the ones with fresh new ideas that could optimize the situation or process.
However, they’re not all that similar. ENTJs have the Judging function, while ENTPs possess the Perceiving function. In a nutshell, ENTPs thrive with the unexpected, while ENTJs value order and organization. Where ENTJs take deadlines and responsibilities seriously, ENTPs are more spontaneous. Despite that, ENTJs and ENTPs usually get along well.
ENTJ vs INTJ
The INTJ personality type (also known as The Mastermind) is similar to the ENTJ personality since they share some of their preferences. After all, they’re both an NT temperament. But before we compare those two types, let’s explore some key INTJ characteristics.
INTJ individuals look at the big picture and like to focus on abstract information, rather than concrete details. They judge the world they live in by putting greater emphasis on logic and objective information rather than subjective emotions. They enjoy theoretical and abstract concepts and are more interested in the potential expansion of these concepts rather than the pure functionality of them. INTJs like to be in control and they’re masters of their own reality.
The Mastermind is a self-confident and hard-working individual, who knows exactly what they want. They like security and always have clearly defined goals, which makes it easier for them to achieve their objectives. No matter if it’s in their professional or personal life, INTJs are straightforward with their intentions and know how to get what they want. Sounds familiar? Well, that’s probably because ENTJs share similar if not identical characteristics with INTJs. However, there’s one key difference that makes the two types rather unalike, and that’s the way they perceive the world around them.
Where ENTJs are extroverts, INTJs are introverts. This means that ENTJs thrive in social situations and get energized when they interact with people. INTJs, on the other hand, prefer to spend time alone and are likely to have a small circle of friends. ENTJs have excellent communication skills and are great at public speaking. INTJs might share the same interests and mindset as ENTJs, but they prefer to keep it to themselves. INTJs get emotionally drained if they spend too much time surrounded by people, while ENTJs flourish in social environments.
ENTJ vs INTP
The INTP personality type (also known as The Logician) is reserved, thoughtful, and analytical. They value intellect over emotion and make decisions based on logic and objective information. INTPs tend to overthink, which often leads to feelings of self-doubt. However, they’re also independent and self-sufficient, so if they ever find themselves too focused on the wrong things, they’ll be quick to shake it off and get back on track.
INTPs are extremely introverted and it’s difficult to get to know them. They prefer to have a small circle of close friends with whom they share common interests and connections. They’re loyal and affectionate with their loved ones and, while they seem distant at times, they’re usually outgoing with people that they feel comfortable with. However, if they get too detached from the outside world, INTPs can get lost in their own thoughts and lose track of reality. INTPs are deep thinkers and value intelligence and knowledge. This is also expressed in their communication style – if they’re having a conversation with somebody who’s not bringing facts and logic to the table, they will find it difficult to understand their point. If you try to express an opinion in an abstract and emotional way to an INTP, it would be like you’re speaking to them in a different language.
Although they seem different, ENTJs and INTPs are both NT temperaments, which means that they’re more alike than you would think. Both types are goal-oriented, analytical, and ambitious. Their curiosity makes them great researchers and inventors. They’re also deeply focused on work, even trending toward workaholism. Sometimes work absorbs their full attention to the point that they become unresponsive to the outside world.
ENTJ and NF Temperament Types
NF temperament types (ENFP, ENFJ, INFP, and INFJ) are driven by their Intuition and Feeling preferences. They’re highly idealistic individuals, driven by empathy. The NF temperament types are generous and accept people for who they are, which makes them great friends, partners, and co-workers. These people are peaceful and shy and tend to be overly sensitive if their interpersonal harmony is damaged. Despite their differences, ENTJs usually get along well with NF temperament types.
ENTJ vs ENFJ
People of the ENFJ personality type (or The Guide) are known as being the strongest “people person” out of all the 16 personality types. They have the ability to create and maintain friendships and relationships with all types, even the most introverted. ENFJs are strong extroverts and are warm, supportive, and affectionate toward others. They have strong communication skills and often use them to guide people toward a better life. ENFJs want to not only build connections with others but to also leave a mark in people’s lives.
That’s why ENFJs are mostly drawn to professions that involve helping others in one way or another. ENFJs make great managers and leaders because of their strong communication skills. They want to help people achieve their potential and they’re good at resolving conflicts. Furthermore, ENFJs sometimes devote too much time to others, which leads to neglecting their own needs. That’s why it’s important for ENFJs to intentionally devote time for themselves, otherwise their mental health experiences imbalance.
Compared to ENFJs, ENTJs avoid displays of emotion and may be perceived as cold in certain situations. ENTJs are caring and considerate of others, but really only to those closest to them. Comforting others doesn’t come naturally to them, and they’re not good at expressing their own emotions. Nevertheless, both types prefer to be around others, solve complex problems, and plan ahead. So they could work well together if they’re able to overcome their differences.
ENTJ vs INFJ
People with the INFJ personality type (also known as The Sage) are gentle, caring, and creative. Similar to ENFJs, INFJs feel passionate about making the world a better place. They’re well aware of others’ emotions and feelings and are usually good friends and supportive partners. INFJs are idealists and possess high moral standards. They’re focused on the future, constantly contemplating the meaning of life. INFJs also have the ability to transform their ideas into action. They’re capable of positively influencing the world around them if they put their mind to it.
INFJs have a strong intuition and are soft-spoken and empathetic. And that’s the main difference between them and ENTJs. Both types are Intuitive and Judging personalities, which means that they are organized and creative. However, INFJs are introverted and empathetic, while ENTJs prefer to spend time with others and express themselves logically. If they’re in a relationship, that difference could cause some issues.
ENTJ vs INFP
The INFP personality type (also known as The Mediator) is reserved, idealistic and thoughtful. People of this type have a developed sense of curiosity that’s directed toward the meaning of life. They often think about their place in the world and want to gain an understanding of themselves. They also spend a lot of time helping others. They are introverts who enjoy being by themselves, but they also strive for developing connections with people.
INFPs are typically focused on the bigger picture and tend to neglect details. They are loyal and devoted to their closest people but they’re also extremely sensitive. INFPs can be difficult to get to know because they frequently develop unhealthy coping mechanisms to protect themselves from getting hurt. Which happens with some frequency, considering how personally they can take things.
In comparison, ENTJs are outgoing and rational and put great emphasis on logic and details. They tend to avoid displays of emotion, which could be a problem if they’re in a relationship with an INFP.
ENTJ vs ENFP
The ENFP personality type (also known as The Optimist) consists of people with genuine enthusiasm about life. They’re charismatic and creative and people love being part of their social circle. ENFPs are good at understanding people’s feelings and, for this reason, many feel comfortable talking about emotions with them. They’re not only good at comforting others, but they also have the ability to make them look at the bright side of life. ENFPs are playful and adventure-seeking and, most of all, they just want to have fun.
In that sense, they strongly dislike routine and get easily bored by mundane tasks. It’s hard to keep their attention, and they sometimes put off important tasks until the last minute. They do have the talent to generate new ideas but, more often than not, they end up abandoning them and not pursuing results. Although they are adaptable and flexible, they get easily distracted and they find it challenging to commit to a task.
ENFPs and ENTJs share two preferences – they are both Extroverted and Intuitive. This means that they have developed imagination and get inspired by innovation and new possibilities. They’re also focused on their outer world and get energized by spending time with others. However, ENTJs are organized and enjoy completing tasks, while ENFPs struggle to follow rules. ENTJs don’t need approval from others, while ENFPs tend to put great emphasis on people’s opinions of them. If an ENTJ and an ENFP are in a relationship, they would usually get along well. They have a lot of similarities between each other, but at the same time possess enough differences to be able to learn from one another.
It’s important for ENTJs to be around people who share the same beliefs and who are similar to them in one way or another. They find it hard to connect with individuals who put their feelings on a pedestal and are ruled by their hearts rather than their heads. However, ENTJs can find common ground with anyone if they understand that people are different and they have the right to be so. Often, they end up liking people they never thought they could get along with, so they should learn how to give people chances. If you want to explore the relationships between The General and the other personality types more in-depth you might enjoy the following article.