If you’re reading this post, there’s a high chance that you’re trying to work out if you’re an ENFJ vs. ESFJ personality type. These two types are often confused because they share many of the same characteristics. Both types are sociable, caring, and warm. They follow through on their word and go above and beyond for those they care about.
But there are also some core differences between how these types think and experience the world. In this post, we explore these core differences. If you’re unclear about your type, we hope this helps you.
So here are five differences between the ENFJ vs. ESFJ personality types:
1. Observing the world.
Despite being similar in a lot of ways, the way ENFJs and ESFJs view the world differently. ENFJs tend to think about the big picture, while ESFJs are more comfortable when dealing with details.
ENFJs have a holistic focus, sometimes at the expense of details. This allows them to use their imagination to see the potential in everything, from people to concepts.
As a result, ENFJs are very future-focused and are often described as “visionary.” They often have a clear, long-term goal that they work toward tirelessly.
ESFJs have a knack for paying attention to what’s around them. They are more likely to see the forest for the trees, so to speak. This is evident in the way they notice small things about people and their environment.
They tend to take a methodical and detail-oriented approach. ESFJs place high importance on verifiable facts and information that is proven.
2. Memory.
Not only do ENFJs and ESFJs take in information differently, but they also differ in the way they remember things. ENFJs tend to remember overall ideas, while ESFJs retain specific details.
ENFJs tend to remember general impressions. This is because they are most interested in the overall idea, the meaning behind something, and the end result. They often don’t remember specific attributes.
For example, they might have a memory of a man in a shop who was rude to them, but they won’t necessarily remember what color jumper he was wearing.
ENFJs store information in their memory in a way that is interconnected and easily accessible. This allows them to make connections between different pieces of information they have gathered.
ESFJs tend to have incredible memories of facts and details. They often remember exactly how things felt, smelled, tasted, etc.
For example, when asked about a restaurant, they might remember a specific item on a menu that they enjoyed rather than the reason they were there. ESFJs tend to be exceptional at remembering birthdays and special dates.
In fact, it’s almost as if they have a library of memories in their minds that they can draw upon in order to compare present experiences with those in the past.
ESFJs are often very talented students, partly because of their ability to remember detailed information for work or school.
3. Problem-solving.
When it comes to solving problems, ENFJs and ESFJs take different approaches. ENFJs approach problems in an abstract way, while ESFJs have a more linear thought process.
ENFJs are quick to see the potential in a situation, and they’re often able to find creative solutions. This is because they’re able to step back and see different perspectives. They’re also very good at understanding people and their motives.
This allows them to find innovative ways to solve problems that take into account the needs of everyone involved. Plus, they naturally use their creativity to think outside the box.
ESFJs are able to find workable solutions by taking a step-by-step approach. They’re patient, and they have a lot of endurance, so they’re able to stick with a problem until they find a practical solution.
ESFJs also tend to be very organized, which helps them break down a problem into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Similar to ENFJs, they are usually very good at taking other people’s feelings into account when trying to find effective solutions.
4. Practicality.
Both types feel most comfortable when they have a clear path, and they like to have a plan that they can follow. ESFJs are one of the most practical personality types, while ENFJs are more likely to be seen as dreamers.
ENFJs are usually idealistic, and they can get overwhelmed by their thoughts. This can make them seem impractical at times. They might have a vision for something that is so perfect that it’s unattainable. Or, they might be holding onto something from their past that doesn’t fit with their present reality.
ENFJs can sometimes benefit from having other people around them who keep them grounded in reality because, at times, they can end up getting too caught up in their heads.
ESFJs, on the other hand, are usually very practical. They’re often able to see things as they are, and they aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
ESFJs are often exceptionally realistic, which can be both a good and a bad thing. On the one hand, it means that they’re able to take care of day-to-day tasks and handle the details that are necessary for survival. On the other hand, it can mean that they’re not always as open to new ideas and possibilities.
5. Communication style.
ENFJs and ESFJs are both extremely thoughtful in the way they communicate, and they always take into account other people’s feelings. However, ENFJs have a more abstract communication style, while ESFJs tend to speak in a more literal way.
ENFJs often communicate in a roundabout way and often use metaphors or analogies to get their point across. They aim to make sure that whoever they are talking to understands the overall idea behind what they’re trying to say.
ENFJs have unique insights into the underlying meanings behind things, and they love to talk about them with those who are on the same wavelength.
ESFJs, on the other hand, are more likely to communicate with tangible, concrete facts. They get their points across in a literal way.
In addition, ESFJs often give exact examples of events that have occurred in the past. This helps the ESFJ feel like they are being clear. ESFJs are usually in the know of what’s going on in everyone’s lives.
Plus, they are able to read people well, and they know how to change their communication style to meet the needs of the other person.
ENFJ vs. ESFJ frequently asked questions
So now we have explained the key differences between the ENFJ vs. ESFJ personality types. Even for those who have explored personality types in depth, it can still be hard to tell the difference between these two types.
Let’s now look at some frequently asked questions about each personality to help make it clearer for you.
Are ENFJs vs. ESFJs more thoughtful?
There’s no simple answer to the question of whether ENFJs or ESFJs are more thoughtful. Both types are deeply empathetic, and they are known for their ability to go out of their way to care for others. That said, there are nuances between the two types when it comes to thoughtfulness.
ENFJs tend to be more future-oriented than ESFJs. They’re often quick to see potential problems and possible solutions, and they’re often very concerned with making sure that everyone is on the same page.
In general, ESFJs are more focused on the present moment and on meeting people’s immediate needs. Seeing as they pay close attention to detail and are practical, they can be exceptionally thoughtful about small things, such as making sure someone has enough food and water if they’re going on a hike.
Ultimately, there’s no clear winner when it comes to which type is more thoughtful. It really depends on the individual and what they’re prioritizing at any given moment.
Do ENFJs and ESFJs have a similar aura?
ENFJs and ESFJs both come across as friendly, open, and caring. In addition, they are both interested in people. In the big scheme of things, they have a similar energy. After all, both personality types are extroverts, feelers, and perceivers. However, there are also key differences between the two types that can affect how they are perceived by others.
ENFJs are often described as being deep and complex. At times, ENFJs can be viewed as intense, particularly if those they are with don’t particularly enjoy discussing underlying meanings. In general, ENFJs may come across as more mysterious and enigmatic.
ESFJs are usually seen as more down-to-earth and practical. They are more likely to engage in lighter topics of conversation. As a result, ESFJs often have a more grounded energy and can come across as more matter-of-fact.
Are ENFJs vs. ESFJs more extroverted?
When it comes to personality types, everyone falls somewhere on the spectrum between introverted and extroverted. ENFJs and ESFJs tend to be two of the most people-oriented extroverts.
Both types are naturally drawn to helping others, and they are interested in people’s lives. They have a desire to feel connected in a social sense and to feel as if they are part of a group.
In addition, ENFJs and ESFJs tend to be curious about human psychology, and they are naturally compassionate. This makes them excellent listeners.
In terms of differences, ENFJs are likely to spend more time in their heads than ESFJs. In contrast, ESFJs have an ability to stay present, which can make them appear more extroverted in some ways.
Final thoughts on ENFJ vs. ESFJ differences
If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our individual ENFJ and ESFJ posts, which delve deeper into each personality type. Last but not least, if you enjoyed this blog post, you might also like ESTJ vs. ESFJ and ENFJ vs. ENTJ.
