In this podcast episode, Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House explore the relevance of personality tests in the context of dentistry. The hosts discuss various personality tests, such as DISC, Myers-Briggs, Enneagram, and StrengthsFinder, reflecting on their experiences and the evolution of these tests over the years. 

The conversation kicks off with Allison expressing her positive experiences with consultants recommending personality tests for team members, suggesting that matching personalities to specific roles in the dental office can be beneficial. Shawn then reflects on the expanding landscape of personality tests, mentioning the StrengthsFinder test and its focus on identifying and leveraging individual strengths for success in the workplace. 

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the idea that understanding one’s strengths and tendencies can contribute to effective team dynamics and task delegation in a dental practice. Shawn shares his experience with the StrengthsFinder test, revealing his top strengths and how they align with his leadership role. 

The hosts delve into the challenge of balancing one’s personality at work and at home. They share personal insights into how their roles as leaders in the dental field may differ from their roles within their families. This leads to a broader exploration of the nuances of personality tests, including the potential for individuals to answer questions differently based on the context in which they find themselves. 

Allison introduces the concept of StrengthsFinder, emphasizing the idea of focusing on one’s top strengths rather than dwelling on weaknesses. The hosts discuss the importance of recognizing and leveraging these strengths for success in the workplace. 

The conversation takes an interesting turn as they explore the impact of personality traits on decision-making, negotiation, and pricing. They discuss the psychological aspects of value perception, with Shawn sharing an anecdote about the relationship between agreeableness and making money, referencing Jordan Peterson’s insights on the matter. 

Allison contributes her perspective on agreeableness, acknowledging its role in her decision-making process. She emphasizes the value of balancing agreeableness with input from disagreeable individuals in her team, offering a nuanced approach to leadership. 

The hosts discuss the tension between providing exceptional service and the financial constraints that may arise from pricing decisions. They highlight the importance of recognizing one’s worth and pricing services accordingly, drawing parallels between personal experiences and the choices individuals make in business. 

The episode concludes with reflections on the journey of competence, from unconscious incompetence to conscious competence, emphasizing the significance of self-awareness in leadership. The discussion weaves together insights into personality traits, leadership, decision-making, and business strategies, offering a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between personality and success in the dental profession. 

Connect with Shawn Zajas
IG: @zanadental

Connect with Dr. Allison House
IG: @housedental