The way we approach sales and selling can be influenced by our personality archetype. Our personalities determine what we value and how we naturally approach things, and this includes sales. There is no need to learn a new script, as our personality archetype gives us a natural ability to work with our strengths and adapt our approach to the sales process. Understanding our personality can help us tap into our potential and improve our effectiveness in sales. Personality archetype refers to the typical patterns of behavior, thoughts, and feelings that a person exhibits, and they can affect how someone approaches sales and selling, as different archetypes may have different strengths and weaknesses in this area.
What if instead of wrestling with people about what should be done, we just love what we do and the participants of what we do?
Sisyphus, a character from Greek mythology, was condemned to push a large boulder up a hill; only for it to roll back down when he reached the top, forcing him to repeat the task for eternity. Sisyphus was seen as a symbol of the endless and fruitless struggle of humanity against the inevitability of death and the transience of life.That is what it feels like when someone tries to assume an identity that is not theirs instead of embracing who they are. When we learn to embrace and use our personality traits, we gain access to a meta script that helps us sell in a way that aligns with our personality. For example, someone with an outgoing and charismatic personality archetype, such as the “Entertainer” or “Champion,” may excel in sales because they are naturally able to connect with people and build rapport. On the other hand, someone with a more reserved or analytical archetype, such as the “Architect” or “Logician,” may struggle with sales because they may have difficulty connecting with others on an emotional level.
Some archetypes are:
Warrior. Characterized by courage, strength, and a strong sense of honor and duty. Warriors tend to be highly disciplined, resilient, and determined, and are often willing to fight for what they believe in, and often have a strong sense of justice and fairness. Some examples are ninjas, warriors, or knights.
Sage. This archetype is known for wisdom, knowledge, and a love of learning. Sages are known for tending to be highly analytical, introspective, and are often driven by a desire to understand the world around them. They are curious, observant, and seek to uncover hidden truths and deeper meaning in life. The sage archetype most famously known is Dumbledore from Harry Potter.
Creator. The creator is known for the imagination, innovation, and a desire to bring something new and original into the world. People who represent this archetype tend to be highly creative, expressive, and visionary, and are often driven by a need for self-expression and a desire to make an impact on the world. They are often drawn to the arts, design, or other creative fields, and may have a talent for turning their ideas into reality. Creators are often seen as innovators or pioneers, and may be admired for their ability to bring something new and fresh into the world. Examples of the creator archetype are Leonardo da Vinci or Steve Jobs.
Lover. This archetype is characterized by a strong focus on relationships, intimacy, and emotional connection. Individuals who embody this archetype tend to be highly passionate, expressive, and sensual, and are often driven by a desire for love and connection. They value beauty, harmony, and emotional depth, and may be drawn to art, music, or other forms of creative expression. Lovers are often seen as romantic, charismatic, and magnetic, and may have a talent for creating meaningful connections with others. In popular culture, examples of the lover are Romeo and Juliet.
Companion. The companion archetype is represented by a strong focus on relationships, loyalty, and support. Companions tend to be highly empathetic, caring, and nurturing, and are often driven by a desire to help and serve others. They value connection, belonging, and community, and may be drawn to social or service-oriented professions. The companion archetype is often associated with sidekicks or best friends, such as Samwise Gamgee from Lord of the Rings.
Explorer. The explorer is portrayed by a strong desire for adventure, discovery, and freedom. Explorers tend to be highly curious, independent, and spontaneous, and are often driven by a need for exploration and self-discovery. They may be drawn to travel, outdoor activities, or other forms of adventure. In popular culture, this archetype is often associated with adventurers or explorers, such as Indiana Jones or Amelia Earhart.
Outlaw. This is a personality pattern that is characterized by a strong desire for freedom, independence, and rebellion against authority. They value personal freedom, authenticity, and living life on their own terms, and may be drawn to countercultural movements, subversive art, or other forms of rebellion against mainstream society. Outlaws are often seen as rule-breakers or renegades, and may have a talent for challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries. Some examples are antiheroes or rebels, such as Han Solo or James Dean.
Jester. The jester is represented by a strong sense of humor, playfulness, and a desire to make others laugh. People with this personality value laughter, humor, and joy, and may be drawn to careers in comedy or other forms of entertainment. Jesters are often seen as tricksters or clowns, and may have a talent for bringing levity and lightheartedness to difficult or serious situations. Robin Williams or Jim Carrey are some examples of jesters.
Everyman. They are identified as a relatable and average persona that is easy for others to identify with. Individuals who manifest this archetype tend to be ordinary, down-to-earth, and unassuming, and are often driven by a desire for belonging and acceptance. They value simplicity, authenticity, and a sense of community, and may be drawn to roles that involve working with others or being part of a team. Jim Halper is an example of this personality type.
Optimist. The optimist archetype is a personality pattern that is distinguished by a positive outlook on life, a hopeful attitude, and a belief in the goodness of people. Individuals who embody this archetype tend to be upbeat, enthusiastic, and confident, and are often driven by a desire to make the world a better place. Optimists value positivity, possibility, and a sense of hope, and are often seen as the “glass-half-full” types. Mary Poppins or Willy Wonka are examples associated with this archetype.
Ruler. The ruler archetype is a personality pattern that is personified by a strong sense of authority, leadership, and control. Rulers are confident, decisive, and responsible, and are often driven by a desire to create order and stability in their surroundings. Rulers are often seen as the “king” or “queen” of their domain, and may have a talent for organizing resources and people to achieve their goals, such as Queen Elizabeth II or Alexander the Great.
