Skip to main content

The Reserved & Outgoing Core Drivers

Learn how the Extraversion–Gregariousness facet is expressed through the Reserved and Outgoing Core Drivers, including their strengths, risks, and impact on teams.

Updated over 3 weeks ago

Reserved

The Reserved Core Driver reflects the low pole of Extraversion’s Gregariousness sub-facet.

Description

Reserved individuals are independent, introverted, and comfortable with their own company. They are naturally quiet, thoughtful, and careful in how they present themselves to others.

Strengths

  • Good listeners who avoid unnecessary small talk

  • Comfortable working alone, often producing their best work independently

  • Less influenced by peer pressure or groupthink, providing thoughtful perspectives

Limitations

  • May struggle to build professional networks and relationships

  • Risk of being perceived as aloof or distant

  • Can remain on the periphery of group dynamics, especially under stress

Team and leadership style

Reserved individuals often play the role of a “Thinker.”

  • Provide careful reflection and independent opinions

  • Add balance by resisting popular opinion when needed

  • Offer thoughtful insights that help teams avoid groupthink

Risk: Their preference for independence can hold them back from collaboration. They may need to make a conscious effort to connect and network, especially during times of stress or adversity.


Outgoing

The Outgoing Core Driver reflects the high pole of Extraversion’s Gregariousness sub-facet.

Description

Outgoing individuals are extroverted, sociable, and energized by spending time with others. They enjoy meeting new people and thrive on building connections.

Strengths

  • Confident and sociable, often seen as engaging and dynamic

  • Quickly build relationships and expand networks

  • Skilled at drawing out quieter team members and encouraging participation

Limitations

  • Risk of overwhelming others with constant social energy

  • May confuse talking with doing, favoring discussion over action

  • Can dominate conversations if not mindful of listening and turn-taking

Team and leadership style

Outgoing individuals often play the role of a “Connector.”

  • Bring people together and foster collaboration

  • Help build team culture and relationships

  • Create an inclusive environment where different voices are heard

Risk: Their highly social style may crowd out others or slow productivity if collaboration becomes excessive. They need to balance energy with focus and ensure space for individual contributions.

Did this answer your question?