The Unconventional Personality Style at Work: Difference by definition
This is part of a series on dark side personality styles. These articles are based on the book Dark Social: Understanding the darker side of work, personality and social media.
The focus of this article is on the Unconventional Personality Style—those who naturally diverge from the norm and display a distinct flair for originality and uniqueness.
Those with Unconventional Personality Style often view the world through a lens that is vividly different from others. Their approach to life and work is marked by a rich tapestry of ideas that may seem eccentric or unconventional to many of their colleagues. These individuals thrive in environments that not only accept but also celebrate their distinctiveness. It allows them to channel their creativity and abstract thinking, and they may enjoy pushing the boundaries — they may push the limits in different ways, so they work best when that is channelled appropriately and productively.
Unconventional personalities are drawn to artistic or innovative workplaces and roles where their unique and creative ideas will be appreciated. Their ability to think outside the box can be valuable in roles that require innovation and a fresh perspective. However, their work's impact is significantly influenced by how well they form relationships with colleagues and having an outlet for their creativity.
Those who collaborate with those scoring high on Unconventional Personality Style may find their distinctive approach to problems and challenges can bring a refreshing and dynamic energy, but sometimes their resistance to traditional methods and approaches can create conflict amongst teams.
What is Unconventional Personality Style?
The Unconventional Personality Style is defined by a distinctive approach to life and work, sometimes defined in opposition to the normal or the everyday ways of working and thinking. Individuals with this style exhibit a strong desire to stand out and are driven by an innate need to express their uniqueness. This individualistic outlook enables them to see possibilities where others might see barriers, but it can also lead to challenges in prioritizing their actions and channeling their energy effectively.
Unconventional personalities often gravitate towards creative or artistic roles. They love to challenge convention, but sometimes have difficulty making themselves understood to others around them. Their ability to think outside conventional frameworks makes them natural innovators, although their disdain for routine and standard procedures can sometimes hinder their ability to integrate into structured environments.
When Stress Hits the Hardest
Stress tends to intensify the inherent skepticism of conformity and following rules that is characteristic of the Unconventional Personality Style. Stress can push them away from others. High-pressure situations, particularly those that challenge their worldview or require conformity, can trigger a strong defensive response. This might manifest as an even more eccentric approach to their work or communication, or an outright rejection of others opinions and approaches, which can complicate problem-solving and decision-making processes.
For individuals with an Unconventional Personality Style, it is crucial to have supportive and flexible frameworks in place that allow them to express their concerns and offer solutions in ways that align with their unconventional thinking. Providing them with creative outlets, autonomy within a clear performance management framework can prevent conflicts from escalating. However they must also be clear on the core functions of their job role, and understand what is open for discussion and which rules that govern their work and workplace relationships are not negotiable.
Working in Groups
Collaboration can be particularly challenging for those with a very high score Unconventional Personality Style. They flourish in environments that respect and celebrate people for standing out, and it can take more active effort to build bridges between people with very different styles of working and communicating. They may struggle in highly structured or rigid teams where conformity is valued over creativity.
Encouraging an environment of mutual respect and understanding, where unconventional ideas are explored rather than dismissed, can lead to improved outcomes that benefit the team and organization. However it is also necessary to maintain boundaries.
Understanding Others
Effectively managing an Unconventional Personality in the workplace requires a deep appreciation of their need for independence and their desire to be seen as different. For managers and colleagues, their behaviour may sometime seem difficult to understand because while many people prefer to “fit in”, those with Unconventional Personality Style may actively fight against fitting in or being seen as ordinary.
Channeling the creative and innovative capabilities of Unconventional personalities into roles where they can truly shine—such as in creative design, problem-solving tasks, or roles requiring innovative thinking—is beneficial for both the individual and the organization. Simultaneously, supporting their development independently, and building bridges with other members of the team can mitigate potential misunderstandings and harnesses their strengths in ways that promote contribution to team success.
How do you score on the Unconventional personality style? Try the Dark Side test and get your results report instantly.