Type Analysis: INFJ or ENFJ?

Since INFJs and ENFJs share the same functions, it’s reasonable to conclude that INFJs who near the extroverted side of the scale may mistype as ENFJs.

If you strongly identify as an introvert, it’s unlikely that you will mistype as an extroverted personality type. However, those who identify with both introverted and extroverted personality traits, also known as ambiverts, may have a hard time deciding if the INFJ or ENFJ description fits them best.

Other than the I and the E, what is it that sets INFJs apart from their extroverted counterparts? First, let’s take a look at the function stack for INFJs and ENFJs:

INFJ: Ni Fe Ti Se
ENFJ: Fe Ni Se Ti

Because the two types share their first extroverted function, Fe (also shared with ISFJs and ESFJs) they may at first impression seem very similar. However, the difference in dominant function (Ni or Fe) is what sets them apart from one another the most.

Ni is a perceiving function and Fe is a judging function. Personality Junkie explains the differences between these dominant functions well:

“Since their Ni is dominant, INFJs are best understood as dominant Perceivers. Their primary purpose is to take in the world and understand it, rather than trying to shape or control it. ENFJs, by contrast, use Fe as their dominant function. Their foremost objective is not to understand the world, but to change or influence it (typically this occurs through their influence on people).”

Since ENFJs’ Fe and Se are higher in their function stack than they are for INFJs, ENFJs tend to be more action-oriented (external) whereas INFJs are more idea-oriented (internal). In Please Understand Me II, Keirsey calls ENFJs the Teachers and INFJs the Counselors. It is a teacher’s job to lead, motivate, and inspire his or her students. These are the biggest strengths of ENFJs. It is a counselor’s job to listen, understand, and advise. These are the biggest strengths of INFJs.

Due to their dominant Fe, ENFJs are more likely to open up about their feelings than INFJs. Both types feel the need to talk out their emotions, but INFJs are more likely to hold something in longer if they don’t feel the time is right to discuss it.

Although extremely empathetic, ENFJs are less perceptive than INFJs, as well as more vocal about their opinions on people and situations, which can make them come across as bossy or judgmental. INFJs dominant Ni serves as a filter for their Fe, which makes them less likely to voice an opinion or concern unless they are confident that it’s the right thing to do.

Both INFJs and ENFJs are warm, empathetic, and often well-liked personality types. Due to their similarities, these types often get along well as close friends and companions.