It's official, we have a new president!  
Barack Obama made history yesterday by becoming the first African American President of the United States!  

Many websites, blogs, and news articles have attempted to "type" Barack Obama for the past year using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).  Hypotheses have ranged from INFP to INTJ to ENFP.  After tons of reading, researching, and consideration, I am inclined to agree with Hile Rutledge's recent argument that Obama is an INFP (Introvert- iNtuitive- Feeling- Perceiving).  Assuming this is accurate, what will that mean for his approach to leadership?

Personality type has strong influence on the way a person leads others.  Personality type affects the way we communicate, make decisions, build relationships, and adapt to change.  There are millions of definitions for the term leadership, but I like the one presented in Introduction to Type and Leadership:  "accomplishing change through the efforts of others."
As an INFP, Barack Obama could be seen as an "Inspired Crusader."  Based on this assumed personality type, the way President Obama would tend to set direction would be through passionately pursuing what he feels is right and considering all alternatives and possibilities for the future.  That can also be a challenge at times, as one could spend too much time considering alternatives and possibilities which could be seen as slow decision making.

INFP's tend to inspire others to follow their direction by having a deep understanding of the needs of others.  They typically build trust easily and are very considerate of others' feelings.  The natural connection with others can also be draining for an Introvert.  An INFP needs to be careful to conserve energy with extended social interaction.  Also, an INFP should be careful not to excessively focus on people's needs at the expense of business needs.  Balance in everything is key.
Finally, when working to accomplish goals, an INFP is able to make due without a complete plan.  They do not typically get bogged down in the details of who, how, when, etc.  Their focus is more on the quality of the initiative than the specific steps needed to make the goal happen.  Strong support from team members who have a TJ preference can complement this process nicely.  Those team members will help the INFP by making sure deadlines are met and not seen as merely suggestions.

As with any area in life, it is important to stretch beyond your natural preferences.  President Obama will surely select a fantastic group of people to surround him, and their personality preference differences will help him see other perspectives.  In decision making, Obama should work to bring out his Thinking side in addition to his natural Feeling preference to make a well-rounded decision.  Similarly, in holding himself and others accountable, exploring the Judging preference would help him meet deadlines with less stress.

Are you an INFP and a leader in your organization?  What do you feel you uniquely bring to the table as an INFP?  What are the challenges you face?