10 characteristics of the Advocate personality type (INFJ)
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, CDCES, MBA
Learn what the advocate (INFJ) personality type is, including what it stands for and 10 characteristics. Plus, how to interact with, and best careers for, an INFJ.
If you’ve ever met someone who’s passionate about helping and leading others—or perhaps that even describes yourself—you may be familiar with the personality type known as the “Advocate.” Defined as introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging (INFJ), this personality type includes traits like having clear insight, empathy, and idealism.
People who seem to have a deep understanding of others and who are driven by a strong sense of compassion might be considered Advocate personality types. But there’s more to this personality type than you might think — INFJs can have hidden depths.
What is the Advocate (INFJ) personality type?
People with the Advocate personality type are often seen as quiet leaders. They’re known as the advocate due to their strong will to fight for what they believe in and help those in need. Advocates can often be introspective, with a keen insight into the emotions—and motivations—of others.
The combination of traits that make up this personality type can make advocates both idealistic and practical. Advocates dream of a better future and work to turn those dreams into reality.
At times, the Advocate’s work ethic can lead to an unrealistic desire for perfection. This can lead to increased expectations, burnout, and other disappointments if not properly managed.
What is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator?
The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality assessment tool that categorizes people into 16 different personality types, according to their preferences in four areas.
Introversion vs. extroversion
Intuition vs. sensing
Feeling vs. thinking
Judging vs. perceiving
The MTBI was developed by Isabel Briggs Myers and Katharine Cook Briggs, based on Carl Jung's theory of psychological types. It can help us understand our strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies — as well as those of others. This can help improve personal development, career choices, and communication in both personal and professional relationships.
What does the INFJ personality type stand for?
INFJ stands for introversion, intuition, feeling, and judging — the core characteristics that shape the personality and behavior of an advocate. This combination makes INFJs able to understand complex situations and craft thoughtful, strategic solutions.
Advocates are often seen as visionaries, capable of seeing the potential for positive change and motivated to act on their beliefs.
Introversion (I)
INFJs may be more energized by spending time alone rather than in social situations. They often enjoy solitary activities like reading, writing, or reflecting, which can bring them a rich inner world of ideas. This doesn't mean they dislike being sociable, but they need alone time to recharge after being with others.
Intuition (N)
Advocates often focus on patterns and possibilities rather than immediate realities. This means this personality type enjoys abstract thinking and theoretical ideas above concrete facts. INFJs look for deeper meanings and often think about future possibilities. They’re big-picture thinkers who might use their intuition to understand complex situations, as well as people.
Feeling (F)
INFJs are guided by their emotions and values when making decisions and can be deeply empathetic. This means they often strive to avoid conflict. INFJs are compassionate and tend to be supportive of their friends and family.
Judging (J)
Advocates tend to be decisive, preferring structure, planning, and order as they approach tasks and goals.
10 characteristics of the INFJ personality type
Whether you’re an INFJ or know someone who is, appreciating the blend of unique traits that accompany this personality type can help build stronger, more supportive relationships.
1. Empathy: INFJs often understand what others are feeling even before those feelings are expressed. This trait can help them connect with people on a deeper, more emotional level. Advocates often act as confidants and counselors, providing support and understanding to those around them.
2. Creativity: Advocates are imaginative and innovative. They may enjoy artistic pursuits like writing, painting, music, and creative problem-solving. An INFJ might come up with a new solution to a complex issue at work or create art that expresses their inner thoughts and emotions.
3. Idealism: INFJs strive to make a positive impact for causes they believe in. They might volunteer for a charity, advocate for social justice, or work in a profession that aligns with their values.
4. Strong moral compass: INFJs have clear values and principles, and they expect the same from others. They may stand up for what they believe in, even if they face opposition. For example, an advocate might take a stand against workplace injustice.
5. Desire for deep connections: Advocates seek out friendships and partnerships with genuine emotional and intellectual connection. They work hard to build and maintain relationships, and can make loyal and devoted friends and partners.
6. Insightfulness: INFJs can understand complex issues and people's true motivations. Skills in navigating social situations and resolving conflicts can make them excellent strategists and advisors.
7. Passion for helping others: Advocates are attracted to jobs and situations where they can make a difference in someone’s life. Whether through their careers, volunteer work, or relationships, advocates love to support and uplift others. Some common career paths for Advocates include counseling, teaching, or working for non-profit organizations.
8. Determination: INFJs are persistent and dedicated and work tirelessly to bring their visions to life, even when faced with challenges.
9. Intuition: A strong gut feeling about situations and people can allow INFJs to make decisions that align with their values and goals.
10. Sensitivity to criticism: INFJs often reflect deeply on feedback, which can sometimes make them feel vulnerable. However, it can also drive them to strive for personal growth. Constructive criticism, delivered with kindness, can help INFJs develop and flourish.
How to interact with the INFJ personality type: 10 tips for connecting with an Advocate
INFJs are known to be compassionate, insightful, and deeply caring. There are a few insights that can help you build a strong, supportive relationship with an INFJ and tactics to create a lasting, meaningful connection.
1. Be authentic and real with them
To build trust and rapport with an INFJ, it’s important to be genuine. Share your true thoughts and feelings with them, as authenticity will help build a deeper connection and mutual respect with this personality type.
💙 Embrace the power of your Individuality and hone your authenticity with guidance from the Relationship with Self Series.
2. Dive into deep and meaningful conversations
INFJs typically love deep, meaningful conversations. They enjoy discussing topics that matter to them, such as personal growth, social issues, and philosophical ideas. Steer away from small talk. Instead, try engaging in conversations that stimulate their mind (and yours), and be genuinely interested in what they have to say.
💙 Explore using mindful listening and thoughtful questions to ignite Deeper Communication within your connections.
3. Respect an INFJ’s need for alone time
Give advocates space when they need it. Appreciate that this time alone helps them reconnect with themselves and unwind and isn’t a reflection of their feelings toward you.
💙 Learn more about Radical Self-Care and how to practice it to reconnect with yourself, too.
4. Make a point of appreciating them
INFJs often put a lot of effort into relationships, and they also value being appreciated. Show gratitude for them with simple gestures, like a heartfelt thank you or a small token of love like a card or their favorite coffee just because.
💙 Develop your gratitude practice and master the art of expressing appreciation by tuning into the 7 Days of Gratitude series with Tamara Levitt.
5. Build trust by being consistent and reliable
When you say you’ll do something, follow through. Avoid betraying an INFJs trust, as they can be deeply hurt by dishonesty.
💙 Discover how Building Trust with others can transform your life with this inspirational story from LeBron James.
6. Be a champion for their dreams and goals
Whether it's a career aspiration, a personal project, or a cause or organization they’re passionate about, show interest in an INFJ’s dreams, and offer support and encouragement to help strengthen your bond.
7. Be patient with an INFJ’s sensitive nature
Be gentle and constructive in your feedback, and avoid harsh or overly critical remarks. Understand that sensitivity is a part of an INFJ’s personality, so try to approach delicate conversations with grace and compassion.
💙 Tune into your Strength of Self-Compassion and how to practice it with The Daily Trip.
8. Let them see the real you by sharing your feelings
Advocates are often great listeners, so open up to them to encourage emotional intimacy and understanding. This vulnerability will not only make them feel safer and more secure in the relationship, but it may help you, too.
💙 Practice Vulnerability to become more comfortable with opening up to those around you.
9. Participate in meaningful activities
Share in activities that they find meaningful, such as volunteering, attending cultural events, or working on creative projects. This can help strengthen your bond and deepen your connection.
10. Be patient with them when they’re pursuing their purpose
Recognize and support an advocate’s quest for a purposeful life. Encourage them to pursue their passions and help them find ways to make a positive impact.
💙 Explore the process of finding purpose with the Daily Jay’s Pleasure vs. Purpose session.
Advocate personality type (INFJ) FAQs
What are the best careers for INFJ personality types?
INFJs tend to thrive in careers that align with their values and allow them to make a difference.
Counseling: INFJs' deep empathy and desire to help others can make them excellent counselors, as this career provides support and guidance to help people improve their mental health and achieve their goals.
Writing: With their creativity and grasp of complex ideas, INFJs can use their skills to write across genres like fiction or nonfiction, or in areas like journalism or blogging.
Teaching: A passion for helping others and an ability to connect emotionally with students can make INFJs inspiring educators, encouraging a love of learning and critical thinking.
Psychology: A career in psychology suits INFJs' interest in understanding human behavior.
Social work: An advocate’s desire for social justice can align them with supporting vulnerable populations and lead them to advocating for systemic change.
Non-profit organizations: Dedicating their careers to causes they care about is a priority for the advocate personality, making non-profit work a natural fit.
Human resources: INFJs can improve workplace environments and employee wellbeing through focusing on recruitment, employee relations, training, and development.
Healthcare: Nursing, physical therapy, or occupational therapy would allow INFJs to provide direct care and improve patients' lives.
Art and design: Creativity may bring an advocate fulfillment in careers like graphic design, illustration, or music.
How can INFJs manage stress effectively?
If you’re an INFJ, you can manage stress with a few key strategies.
Practice self-care: Read, meditate, exercise, or spend time in nature to recharge and maintain your mental health.
Set boundaries: Learn to say no to avoid taking on too much because you want to help others. This boundary can help protect your energy and time.
Express emotions: Find healthy outlets for expressing emotions, such as journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or creating art through painting or music.
Seek support: Talk about stressors with friends, family, or a therapist to feel validated and get advice.
Organize and plan: Break down large tasks into manageable steps to help reduce feelings of overwhelm.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the INFJ personality type?
Strengths:
Empathy: INFJs can deeply understand the feelings of others, which can make them excellent listeners and supportive friends.
Creativity: They are often imaginative and innovative, bringing new ideas and perspectives to different situations.
Idealism: Striving to make the world a better place can bring INFJs to focus on social justice and humanitarian goals.
Insightfulness: Understanding complex issues and people's motivations can make INFJs excellent problem-solvers.
Determination: INFJs can be highly dedicated and persistent in achieving goals.
Weaknesses:
Sensitivity to criticism: INFJs can be deeply affected by negative feedback, often taking it to heart.
Perfectionism: Advocates tend to be perfectionists and have a desire to reach unrealistic expectations.
Avoiding conflict: INFJs may avoid confrontation, which can lead to unresolved issues or suppressed emotions.
Overcommitting: Their desire to help others can mean taking on too many responsibilities, which can lead to burnout.
Difficulty opening up: When INFJs struggle to share their own feelings and needs, it can mean they feel misunderstood.
How do INFJs approach romantic relationships?
INFJs approach romantic relationships with depth and commitment.
Seeking deep connection: INFJs tend to prefer meaningful connections and value emotional intimacy over short-term or casual encounters.
Loyalty and commitment: INFJs can be extremely dedicated to a partner who shares their values and passions. They often work hard to make their partner feel loved and supported and wish for the same in return.
Communication: INFJs value open and honest communication. They appreciate partners who can share their thoughts and engage in deep conversations about the relationship.
Support and understanding: Advocates can be empathetic partners who strive to understand their partner's needs and emotions.
Balancing alone time: INFJs appreciate partners who understand and respect their need for solitude and personal space to recharge.
Can an INFJ personality type change over time?
While the core personality traits of an INFJ are relatively stable, everyone can experience growth and change over time.
Personal development: INFJs may develop new skills and adapt their behaviors. For example, they might grow to become more assertive or more efficient at handling criticism.
Life experiences: Changes in career, relationships, or personal challenges can lead to greater resilience and adaptability in this personality type.
External influences: Cultural background, social interactions, and education can cause an INFJ to adjust their natural tendencies to better fit their environment.
Maturity: Becoming comfortable with their own identity over time may mean INFJs develop a more balanced approach to their strengths and weaknesses.
How can organizations support INFJs in the workplace?
Organizations can create a supportive environment for INFJs to thrive and contribute.
Provide meaningful work: INFJs thrive in roles that align with their values and allow them to make a positive impact. Assign projects with a clear purpose that contribute to the greater good.
Create a collaborative environment: Encourage open communication, shared ideas, and working closely with others toward common goals.
Offer flexibility: Allow flexibility in work hours and the option to work remotely, as INFJs often perform best with freedom to manage their time and environment.
Encourage professional development: Provide opportunities for continuous learning and personal growth by giving access to resources that help them develop their skills.
Respect their need for privacy: Create a work environment that respects their need for quiet. Offer options for solo work or provide quiet areas so INFJs can recharge and stay productive.
Acknowledge contributions: Recognize and appreciate their hard work and contributions to help boost an INFJ’s morale and motivation.
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