Of the 16 personality types in the MBTI system, the ENFJ is often considered the strongest "people person." Because of their ability to sense what others are feeling and their natural charisma, they can easily forge relationships — working, friendship, or romantic.
This is also balanced by their strong value system and commitment to having deep, meaningful connections with others. While that makes ENFJ a great partner, not everyone they meet will be as attuned to their needs or even be interested in forming such relationships.
As such, it's ENFJ's priority to seek partners who match their emotional intelligence and empathy, making them most compatible with other feeling types such as INFJ, ENFP, and INFP. ISTP and ESTP personality types are the opposite of ENFJs, and may find it challenging to understand or keep up with an ENFJ's emotional depth and intensity.
ENFJ Compatibility Chart
In this article, we'll explain the compatibility between all other MBTI personality types and the ENFJ personality type. But before going deeper into details, take a look at a comprehensive ENFJ compatibility chart summarizing how this type matches with others.
ENFJ Compatibility Chart
ENFJ Relationship Compatibility
What makes ENFJs so compatible with some personality types and not so much with others?
As mentioned earlier, their strong value system and empathy are among the factors. ENFJs seek deep, meaningful connections and prioritize the emotional well-being of their partners. This resonates strongly with INFPs, INFJs, and ENFPs, who also highly value emotional connection and understanding.
Another aspect that contributes to compatibility is the ability to communicate effectively. ENFJs are natural communicators and can easily express their thoughts and emotions. This trait is desirable to personality types who prioritize emotional expression and communication in relationships.
Moreover, ENFJs' compatibility with different personality types largely stems from their cognitive function stack. Their dominant Extraverted Feeling (Fe) makes them highly attuned to others' emotions, which can create strong connections with types who value emotional intelligence. However, this same trait might overwhelm the more reserved and analytical Thinking (Ti) types who prefer more emotional distance and logical discussions.
Their auxiliary Introverted Intuition (Ni) helps the ENFJ understand complex patterns in relationships, potentially clashing with more present-focused types who may struggle with future-oriented discussions.
The ENFJ's Judging, Perceiving, and Sensing functions may also play a role in compatibility, but to a lesser extent. Their Judging (J) trait means they like structure and decisiveness, which can create friction with more spontaneous Perceiving types.
ENFJ's tertiary Extraverted Sensing (Se) and inferior Introverted Thinking (Ti) are less developed but can still impact compatibility. ENFJs may find it difficult to understand the more sensory-oriented types while also potentially struggling with analytical discussions and decision-making.
ENFJ Compatibility With Other Personality Types
Which personality types are best suited for an ENFJ? And which ones are likely to cause friction in a relationship? Let's take a closer look at how ENFJs match up with all 16 Myers-Briggs personality types:
ENFJ Best Matches: Strongly Compatible
Best matches often share the ENFJ's values and appreciate their warmth. They also value emotional connection and appreciate generosity, forming deep and meaningful connections with the ENFJ.
1. ENFJ and INFP Compatibility
These two NF Visionary types approach relationships in relatively similar ways. With a shared nature of being in touch with their own emotions and other people's feelings, these types can truly nurture each other. Moreover, their shared Intuition (Ni) can help them engage in deep and insightful conversations.
The primary Introverted Intuition in INFPs can spark inspiring ideas in ENFJs, who sometimes need help moving from the external world of feelings into abstract thoughts.
In addition, ENFJs can help INFPs feel more comfortable in social situations, while INFPs offer ENFJs a safe space to explore their inner world. Their shared idealism and desire for authenticity can also help INFP and ENFJ create a strong foundation for a lasting relationship.
2. ENFJ and INFJ Compatibility
As two highly empathetic and intuitive types, the INFJ-ENFJ pairing is often described as "a match made in heaven." Both deeply desire authentic connections and have no problem expressing their emotions.
The shared dominant Fe function makes it easy for these types to tune into each other's feelings, creating a harmonious relationship built on mutual understanding.
The combination of INFJ's primary Introverted Intuition and ENFJ's Extraverted Feelings also makes for a powerful synergy that balances each other out. Plus, their shared Judging (J) trait means they both value structure and decisiveness, making them excellent at planning and executing their shared goals.
3. ENFJ and ENFP Compatibility
ENFPs are often described as the "Idealists" of all personality types. They share similar values with ENFJs, such as empathy, warmth, and authenticity. Both types also possess strong Extraverted Feeling (Fe) functions that make understanding each other's emotions effortless.
Their auxiliary Introverted Intuition (Ni) also allows them to have deep and meaningful conversations about abstract ideas and future possibilities. The ENFJs appreciate the ENFP's spontaneity and ability to think outside the box, while ENFPs are drawn to the ENFJ's warmth and ability to organize and implement ideas.
This pairing also thrives on shared experiences and mutual inspiration. ENFJs provide structure and follow-through to the ENFP's creative visions, while ENFPs encourage ENFJs to embrace flexibility and new perspectives. Their combined energy and optimism make for an exciting and growth-oriented relationship.
ENFJ Average Matches
Let's take a closer look:
4. ENFJ and ENTJ Compatibility
Both ENTJ and ENFJ are highly ambitious, outgoing, charismatic, sociable, and efficient leaders. While they may seem like a perfect match, their battle for leadership can create friction. ENTJs also value efficiency and results above all else, while ENFJs put more emphasis on emotions when making decisions.
However, with good communication and understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses, an ENTJ-ENFJ pairing can be successful. Both types can learn from each other's perspectives and make a list of goals together.
5. ENFJ and ESFJ Compatibility
These two personality types are caregivers at heart. They thrive on social interaction, love planning events, and enjoy helping others. However, their shared Extraverted Feeling (Fe) can also lead to potential conflicts as they both prioritize harmony and may not communicate their needs effectively.
The Sensing and Intuition functions also differ, with ESFJs focusing on details and concrete facts, while ENFJs are more abstract thinkers. For this relationship to thrive, both individuals must be attentive to each other's needs for affirmation. Without mutual gratification, it’s common for both to feel inferior.
6. ENFJ and ENTP Compatibility
ENTPs are known for their wit, innovation, and desire to challenge the status quo. Their outgoing nature can complement an ENFJ's social skills and love of new experiences. However, their Introverted Thinking function may lead them to question or challenge the ENFJ's decisions or ideals.
Their strong wills can also put these pairings at odds. ENTPs' stubbornness and quick wit may rub ENFJs the wrong way. The ENTPs are also combative, which may not go well with ENFJ's understanding nature.
Exercise caution when engaging in challenging conversations to make the relationship work. While ENTPs tend to be non-judgmental, they may not be open to criticism. On the other hand, ENFJs often internalize other people's emotions.
7. ENFJ and INTJ Compatibility
ENFJ and INTJ have conflicting personality traits. ENFJs are extroverted and spontaneous, whereas INTJs are introverted and reserved. ENFJs prioritize emotions, while INTJs prioritize logic.
However, as friends, these two pairings can help each other thrive. INTJs are determined dreamers who can benefit from ENFJs' support and encouragement. ENFJs, in turn, can learn to think more critically and logically from INTJs.
8. ENFJ and ENFJ Compatibility
Aren't we all dying to know if two ENFJs can make it work? In reality, this pairing can be both rewarding and challenging.
On one hand, there is an instant understanding of each other's feelings and desires. They share the same values, energy levels, and emotions.
However, their similar personalities may also lead to power struggles or a lack of balance in decision-making. They may also struggle with setting boundaries and taking care of their individual needs within the relationship.
Communication and compromise are key to making this pairing work. Both individuals must be aware of their tendency to prioritize others' emotions over their own and make an effort to address their own needs as well.
ENFJs One-Sided Matches
One-sided attractions can occur when there is an imbalance in emotional investment or when one individual is more interested in the other than vice versa. ENFJs are known for their charm and charisma, making them natural targets for infatuation. However, they can also experience unrequited feelings towards someone else.
9. ENFJ and ISTJ Compatibility
While ENFJs may be drawn to the stability and reliability of an ISTJ, this pairing may struggle with communication and emotional expression. ISTJs prefer concrete facts over abstract discussions, which may clash with ENFJs' intuitive nature. This can lead to a dynamic where the ENFJ feels like they are constantly trying to get through to the ISTJ.
Moreover, ISTJs tend to prioritize logic over emotions, which can create misunderstandings or hurt feelings in an emotionally driven ENFJ. The ISTJ may also feel overwhelmed and misunderstood by the ENFJ's emotional intensity.
10. ENFJ and ISFJ Compatibility
Both ISFJs and ENFJs share a passion for helping others and creating harmony. However, their different approaches may create friction in a relationship. ISFJs prefer routine and stability, while ENFJs thrive on spontaneity. The result may be that ISFJs feel overwhelmed and ENFJs feel stifled.
ISFJs tend to be more reserved with their emotions, while ENFJs are open and expressive. This can lead to misunderstandings or the ISFJ feeling like they are not living up to the ENFJ's expectations in terms of emotional expression, while an emotionally expressive ENFJ can be left feeling unfulfilled.
ISFJs may also feel overwhelmed by an ENFJ's need for constant social interaction and stimulation.
11. ENFJ and ISFP Compatibility
ISFPs are known for their creativity, empathy, and sensitivity. They can provide an emotionally supportive and understanding partner for an ENFJ.
However, their introverted nature may make it challenging to keep up with the ENFJ's need for social interaction and validation. Also, ISFPs live in the present moment, while ENFJs are future-oriented. This difference in perspective can rub the ENFJ the wrong way, as they may see the ISFP as too passive or lacking in ambition.
12. ENFJ and INTP Compatibility
INTPs are analytical and logical thinkers who value independence and privacy. They may struggle with the level of emotional intensity that comes with dating an ENFJ. The INTP may feel pressured to constantly express their feelings, while the ENFJ may feel like the INTP is emotionally distant.
The differences in communication styles — INTPs prefer a more direct and concise approach while ENFJs tend to be more emotional and expressive — can also result in an unbalanced relationship. The INTP may feel overwhelmed or frustrated by the ENFJ's need for constant reassurance and emotional expression.
13. ENFJ and ESTJ Compatibility
ESTJs are practical, logical, and highly organized people who value efficiency and directness. They prioritize structure, clear rules, and tangible results.
ENFJs might feel undervalued and unsupported by ESTJs, who may overlook the emotional aspects and the need for affirmation that ENFJs crave. The ESTJ’s straightforward and sometimes blunt communication style can also unintentionally hurt the sensitive ENFJ, making them feel unappreciated.
Conversely, ESTJs may perceive ENFJs as overly emotional or impractical, not understanding the value ENFJs place on empathy and interpersonal dynamics. This mismatch can lead to frustration on both sides, with ENFJs feeling their emotional needs are unmet and ESTJs feeling bogged down by what they see as unnecessary emotional complexity.
14. ENFJ and ESFP Compatibility
ENFJs and ESFPs may experience one-sided compatibility because while ENFJs thrive on deep emotional connections and long-term planning, ESFPs prefer living in the moment and seeking immediate gratification.
ENFJs often seek meaningful conversations and future-oriented goals, whereas ESFPs focus on enjoying the present and spontaneous experiences. This can lead to ENFJs feeling unfulfilled by the lack of depth and future focus in the relationship, while ESFPs might feel constrained by the ENFJ's structured approach.
The difference in their prioritization of depth versus spontaneity often results in a mismatch of needs and expectations, making the relationship feel unbalanced.
ENFJ Least Compatible Matches: Potential for Friction
While ENFJs can form meaningful connections with most personality types, some pairings may require more effort and understanding. These types may have different priorities, communication styles, or ways of processing emotions, leading to potential relationship friction.
15. ENFJ and ISTP Compatibility
The ISTP and ENFJ personality types couldn't be more different — ENFJs are extroverted leaders who thrive on emotional connections, whereas ISTPs are introverted risk-takers who focus on logic and practicality. These differences in nature are good enough to cause friction in friendships and relationships.
In short, ENFJs and ISTPs are polar opposites, and while opposites may attract, they can also clash. Nevertheless, it may require a lot more effort and understanding than other pairings to create a harmonious connection.
16. ENFJ and ESTP Compatibility
Another potential source of conflict for ENFJs is with ESTPs. The judging attitude of an ESTP can throw off an ENFJ.
And as much as ENFJs and ESTPs are social butterflies, ENFJs often butt heads with ESTPs because of how they interact with others. ENFJs value authenticity and connect with others emotionally, while ESTPs usually avoid emotional discussions and instead use logistical leadership tactics.
How to make it work? Cautiously approaching emotional conflicts or discussions can be a significant source of match-creating within this pairing.
Warn your partner about the nature of your conversation before jumping into a discussion. This will give them enough time to mentally prepare themselves so they can be emotionally present during your conversation.
Dating and ENFJ: What are ENFJs Like In Romantic Relationships?
When an ENFJ is in love, everyone knows it. ENFJs fall head over heels very fast and wear their heart on their sleeve, so it is almost impossible to hide their emotions. Despite their high standards and expectations, this personality isn't afraid to make the first move.
Above all else, ENFJs are supportive partners. They will go above and beyond to make their partner feel happy, valued, and loved. Their knack for reading emotions lets them know exactly what their partner needs and they are always willing to provide it.
They may even subconsciously take on their partner's goals, especially if they've been in a relationship for a long time. ENFJs also value emotional intimacy in a relationship.
They want to connect with their partner on a deeper level and share their thoughts, feelings, and dreams openly. This can make them vulnerable, but they are willing to take the risk to create a strong emotional bond.
ENFJs love language is somewhat broad. They are big romantics at heart and enjoy grand gestures, surprises, and creating unforgettable memories in the relationship. This can make them great at planning special date nights or thoughtful gifts for their significant other.
They also tend to prioritize the needs of others over their own. They seek harmony in relationships and will do their best to avoid conflicts despite being sensitive to criticism.
Their insightful and emotionally in-tune nature helps them resolve any arising issue quickly, even at the expense of their happiness. Along with this, ENFJs also have great communication skills. In a relationship, the ENFJ will keep the lines of communication open and listen attentively to their partner.
Overall, dating an ENFJ can be a fulfilling and loving experience for both parties. Their natural empathy, strong intuition, and commitment to creating harmony in relationships make them great romantic partners. However, they can be overprotective, which can make them appear to be overbearing.
Their affectionate and supportive nature may be overwhelming for some. They can sometimes get overly involved in their partner's life even if they don't mean to hover. They simply want to do everything possible to ensure their partner's happiness and success.
ENFJ Relationship Needs
An ENFJ's relationship needs are deeply rooted in emotional connection and understanding. They thrive on open communication and a partner who is willing to share their thoughts, feelings, and goals with them.
ENFJs also value affirmation and reassurance from their partner. While they may come across as confident and outgoing, they can be sensitive to criticism and need frequent reminders of love, appreciation, and support from their significant other. In terms of conflict resolution, ENFJs prefer a calm and respectful approach.
They are highly empathetic individuals who don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, so they appreciate partners who can communicate effectively without being harsh or dismissive.
Put simply, an ENFJ's relationship needs to revolve around creating a solid emotional connection, honest communication, and mutual support and understanding. If these needs are unmet, their relationships may suffer as they struggle to find fulfillment and harmony.
ENFJ Strengths In a Relationship
As natural caregivers, supportive and intuitive, ENFJs have several strengths that make them great partners in a relationship. Some of their strengths include:
ENFJ Weaknesses In a Relationship
We all have our flaws, and ENFJs are no exception. Some of the most common weaknesses seen in ENFJs in a relationship include:
- Sensitive to criticism
- Idealistic nature
- Over-involvement
- High expectations
- Conflict avoidance
- People-pleasing tendencies
- Difficulty saying “no”
To Wrap Up…
ENFJ relationship compatibility is a complex interplay of unique traits, strengths, and potential challenges. While ENFJs often find their most fulfilling connections with types like INFPs, INFJs, and ENFPs, they have the capacity to form meaningful relationships with a wide range of personalities. Their natural warmth, empathy, and dedication to personal growth make them valuable partners in any relationship.
However, it's crucial to remember that personality type is just one factor in compatibility. Individual experiences, values, and personal growth all play significant roles in determining the success of a relationship.
For ENFJs, the key to lasting compatibility lies in leveraging their strengths — such as their strong communication skills and commitment to nurturing others — while also working on potential blind spots, like their tendency towards people-pleasing or neglecting their own needs.
Ultimately, the most compatible relationships for ENFJs are those where both partners are committed to understanding, supporting, and growing with each other.
By embracing their natural gifts of empathy and leadership while remaining open to learning from their partner's perspective, ENFJs can cultivate deeply satisfying and harmonious relationships, regardless of their partner's personality type!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can ENFJs have successful relationships with introverted types?
Absolutely! While ENFJs may feel more at ease with fellow extroverts, they can also form strong connections with introverted personality types.
2. Who is the best match for an ENFJ?
According to Myers-Briggs personality theory, some of the best matches for ENFJs include INFPs, INFJs, and ENFPs. The INFP's introspective nature complements the ENFJ's warmth and empathy, while INFJs' deep understanding of emotions can help balance out any potential conflicts. ENFPs share similar values with ENFJs and bring energy and spontaneity into the relationship.
3. Can two ENFJs be in a successful relationship?
Yes, two ENFJs can form a strong and fulfilling relationship. They share similar values and communication styles, making it easier for them to understand each other. However, they may need to put in extra effort to balance their idealistic tendencies and avoid conflicts.
4. How does ENFJ handle conflicts?
ENFJs typically approach conflicts in relationships with a desire to understand and empathize with others' perspectives. They often prioritize harmony and seek to resolve issues collaboratively. However, their strong inclination to care for others can sometimes make them neglect their own needs, especially if they are dealing with partners who exhibit insecure attachment styles.
