Red personality type
Who are Reds?
Red librarian avatar by Randy Vernier
In general, red represents “force of Will” (Lüscher, 1969, p. 25) and power (Hartman, 2006, as cited in Ault and Barney, 2007, p. 74). Reds, although somewhat self-centered, are considered extroverts because of their sociable, lively and outgoing personality. More on the active and excitable side, they tend to need constant stimulation (visual, intellectual, sensory, emotional, etc.). Natural born leaders, or at least they perceive themselves in that way, they like to take charge, manage, organize and optimize production. They exude confidence but secretly need to be recognized by others. This drives their dedication and compulsivity to work or to better themselves. Although very sociable and usually well liked, Reds can sometimes be overbearing, aggressive, arrogant and selfish.
(Adaptation of Lüscher, 1969; Hartman, 2006, as cited in Ault and Barney, 2007; True ColorsTM, 1990, as cited in Honaker, 2003, see chart bellow.)
(Adaptation of Lüscher, 1969; Hartman, 2006, as cited in Ault and Barney, 2007; True ColorsTM, 1990, as cited in Honaker, 2003, see chart bellow.)
Red traits and characteristics and corresponding color models
according to the following models of color theory
Below are some thoughts on how someone entering the LIS profession might interpret and use the results of this assessment. We invite you to ponder the following, then reach your own conclusions.
How and why Reds fit in the Library and Information science world?
No one color is best suited for LIS work. However, due to their need to be at the center of the action and their compulsive need for improvement, Reds could be natural managers of resources and staff. They might do well at organizing the work of others and managing the administrative and budgetary functions of information services organizations.
For these same reasons, Reds could be great teachers and would do well at conducting library and orientation workshops.
Chief librarians, archivists and other information professionals may also take advantage of Reds’ go-getter attitude, social skills and likability to develop things like specialized programs, community projects and fundraisers.
For these same reasons, Reds could be great teachers and would do well at conducting library and orientation workshops.
Chief librarians, archivists and other information professionals may also take advantage of Reds’ go-getter attitude, social skills and likability to develop things like specialized programs, community projects and fundraisers.
Leadership strenghts and shortcomings
According to the American Library Association (ALA), the ideal librarian and information professional would have all of the personal traits listed to the left.
Reds are usually pros at the traits highlighted at the top in red (sense of direction or vision, passion and energy, risk taking, capacity to motivate others).
They do well but sometimes struggle with the qualities presented in the middle slot (self confidence, social perceptiveness, optimism).
They may have a hard time with the skills displayed at the bottom (emotional intelligence, consensus building, personal integrity).
For a complete description of these personal traits, visit ALA's website at: http://www.ala.org/nmrt/initiatives/ladders/selfassess/selfassess
Reds are usually pros at the traits highlighted at the top in red (sense of direction or vision, passion and energy, risk taking, capacity to motivate others).
They do well but sometimes struggle with the qualities presented in the middle slot (self confidence, social perceptiveness, optimism).
They may have a hard time with the skills displayed at the bottom (emotional intelligence, consensus building, personal integrity).
For a complete description of these personal traits, visit ALA's website at: http://www.ala.org/nmrt/initiatives/ladders/selfassess/selfassess
How can Reds improve their leadership skills?
As leaders, Reds usually need to work on their relationships with others.
Although very sociable, Reds tend to be focused on their personal or professional success through the use of others. Very competitive, they tend to walk over adversaries and colleagues alike. As leaders, Reds are often intimidating and can be insensitive to the needs, opinions, talents and abilities of their coworkers and employees. Often seen as sharks or dragons in the workplace, Reds should work at seeming less aggressive by making others feel safe to share their opinions and ideas. Setting up suggestion boxes would be a simple first step in this direction for Red leaders. Delegating tasks to trusted colleagues and taking a step back is also a great way for them to mentor employees from afar. Think tanks on specific LIS topics could also help Reds become better listeners as long as they do not take over the conversation. |
Recommended resources for Reds
Goleman, D. (2011). Emotional Intelligence. [YouTube video]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJhfKYzKc0s
For other useful leadership tips, check out our Resources page. |