The NPSI styles: Harmoniser

Welcome back as we continue our journey through the different personality styles of the Navanter Personality Styles Instrument. If you missed the previous parts of this section, you can start here.


Motivation: Low-pressure and comfort for others

The Harmoniser is motivated less by their own feelings of comfort and inclusion, but that of people around them. Harmonisers want to help others where possible, and make an environment in which others feel comfortable and are free to thrive. This desire to make others comfortable means that Harmonisers prefer not to assert themselves, but to give others space to shape their roles and lives.

Words chosen: Inclusive language creating a shared journey

Harmonisers prefer not to ask others to do what they wouldn’t attempt themselves, and this desire manifests itself in their inclusive approach to communication. The Harmoniser prefers “we” to “you”, and speaks in a way which coaches others to find their own goals.

Tone of voice: Calm and thoughtful

When a Harmoniser speaks, it’s much slower and more thoughtful than a Realist or an Idealist. Harmonisers are typically very emotionally intelligent, and their more relaxed pace allows them time to see the reaction their words are having on the other person, thus enabling them to adapt their approach as appropriate for the other party.

Body language: Open and approachable

The lower level of assertiveness present in the Harmoniser is clear to see in the way they use their bodies. Movements tend to be slower and more relaxed than some other types, and an open posture encourages participation from others. However, when under pressure, a Harmoniser might close up their bodies in order to protect themselves from even mildly pressured situations. Harmonisers are not great at eye contact.

Preferred environment: Personal items and collaborative positioning

A Harmoniser doesn’t like to draw a personality line between work and non-work life, and for this reason, mementoes and personal artefacts are prevalent in the Harmoniser’s workspace. It’s important for a Harmoniser to feel comfortable, and the dislike for assertive stances means a preference for sitting side-by-side with others than opposite – it’s a more collaborative set-up which avoids uncomfortable, face-to-face positioning.


Location: London, UK

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