IFTM held on 20 October a workshop on personality dimensions, presented by Dr. Kiano Luk Yim-mei, an Assistant Professor at UOW College Hong Kong. The workshop was for Year 2 students enrolled in the Hotel Management Evening Bachelor Degree Programme.
Dr. Luk introduced the theory behind personality dimensions. She told the workshop that personality dimensions could help people better understand their own strengths and weaknesses, while acknowledging those of others. The concept may be used to help improve interpersonal relationships and understand differences between individuals. Personality dimensions, Dr. Luk said, should be regarded as gifts, not defects.
The concept of personality dimensions originated in Canada. It is used to sort individuals into 4 types: Inquiring Green, Organised Gold, Authentic Blue and Resourceful Orange. The tools used in the assessment include picture cards and dimension cards that explore areas of personality such as personal relationships, life values, communication styles, preferred work environment and work style, and conflict styles.
The workshop was organised by IFTM Assistant Professor Dr. Yvonne Chen Yi Fan. Owing to restrictions on travel between Macao and Hong Kong due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the workshop took the form of a videoconference.
As part of the workshop, students were asked to assess what their dominant personality dimension was, with the help of Dr. Luk. This was meant to help them improve their self-understanding and to reflect on which part of the hotel industry may be most suitable for them to work in when they graduate.
Many students concluded they were in the Organised Gold category. Dr. Luk explained these students’ core needs were related to responsibilities and obligations. This personality type emphasises interpersonal relationships, rules and procedures. People with this profile may experience pressure if faced with chaotic situations, and she said these people might be better suited to working in settings requiring good planning and organisation skills. As Organised Gold individuals were comfortable with policies and organisational structures, they often ended up in managerial positions, Dr. Luk said.
Some students noted they seemed to have 2 dominant personality dimensions. Dr. Luk explained that this might mean they show different characteristics in different environments and situations, which was common.
Dr. Luk stressed that personality dimensions are based on current individual characteristics. These could change over time, meaning individuals may see changes in their dominant personality dimensions. She said the exercise formed a reference for career planning and development.
