The
Inspector Guardians
are not only concrete in speech and cooperative in getting things
done, they are also directive and attentive in their social interactions.
Though not always open about directing others, still they are not
the least bit reluctant in this regard.
About
ten percent of the general population, Inspectors are characterized
by decisiveness in practical affairs, are the guardians of time-honored
institutions, and, if only one adjective could be selected, "dependable"
would best describe this type.
Whether
at home or at work, iStJs are extraordinarily reliable and dependable,
particularly when it comes to inspecting the people and things in
their field of vision. Inspectors can be counted on to not only scrutinize
the products and accounts of the institutions they serve -- the company's
books, the farmer's crops, the manufacturer's goods -- but also to
examine the attitudes and actions of those around them.
Inspectors
are earnest and thorough in their inspecting; all must go under their
magnifying glass, so that no deviation from the official standard
is left undetected. It is their duty to spot and to report any and
all discrepancies, though they prefer to work behind the scenes and
not confront the deviators. Indeed, iStJs are rather quiet and serious
types, making their inspections without flourish or fanfare, and,
therefore, the dedication they bring to their work can go unnoticed
and unappreciated.
Inspectors
have a distaste for and distrust of fanciness in speech, dress, or
place. Their words tend to be simple and "down home," not showy or
high-flown; their clothes are often practical and conservative rather
than of the latest style or extravagant; and their home and work environments
are usually neat, orderly, and functional, rather than up-to-date
or luxurious.
In their
choice of personal property (cars, furnishings, jewelry, and so on)
price and durability are of primary concern, comfort or appearance
given small consideration. "Classics," antiques, and heirlooms are
especially prized, having achieved a certain time-honored status --
iStJs prefer the old-fashioned to the newfangled every time. Even
on vacation, "no nonsense" seems the term for this type, who tend
not to be attracted by exotic foods, beverages, or locales.
The television
character Lt. Colombo was the essence of a iStJ.