The NPSI styles: Realist

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: Achievement and control

The Realist is an achiever – this person likes to have a goal, and will proactively work to achieve that goal through motivated working, and through moving problems aside as they are encountered. Achieving the goal is more important than how it is achieved, however, and there’s a danger that there may be casualties along the way.

Words chosen: Verbs and directing words

The Realist chooses words which encourage action – lots of verbs and instructions for people. The Realist prefers it when people don’t push back on instructions, as this can delay the objective being achieved. The Realist likes to get to the point quickly, and has little time for small talk. Words like “I need” rather than “I like” can be over-used.

Tone of voice: Confident and firm

Realists are firm, often fast-talking communicators who prefer to deliver their message with minimal discussion. If there is a discussion, the Realist prefers to maintain control of the conversation. Speech can be quite brief, with little vocal variation unless to highlight a significant point, and the speaker looks for confirmation from the listener that they agree.

Body language: Confident and assertive

The Realist’s physical presentation is bold and self-assured. The Realist will use hand gestures well to emphasise a point, but will not over-use them, preferring to focus on the verbal delivery of strong words. Personal space isn’t as important to a Realist as it is to some others, and other styles can sometimes feel the Realist invades their boundaries, particularly when under stress. Realists are great at making eye contact.

Preferred environment: Confidence-building and direct contact

Realists are most at home in an environment which suggests power and success. The Realist’s office will often contain mementoes of past glories and current achievements, such as charts, awards, and items which have brought success in the past. When talking with others, the Realist prefers to be face-to-face in a high-assertiveness position where good eye contact can be made.

Location: Oxford, UK

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