ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the differences between trait theories of personality and integrative approaches. It also explains the Big Five personality traits and applies them to a creative industry context. The chapter outlines the five characteristics of the Five Factor Model that can each be 'fixed' or 'free'. Five characteristics are: openness to experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. The chapter identifies the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator preferences. It also identifies key personality traits that affect job performance in the creative industries. The chapter explores the characteristics of someone who may be perceived as 'creative'. It defines personality characteristics such as locus of control, self-efficacy, self-monitoring and affect. The chapter helps to apply concepts and research-backed recommendations on how to best manage creative individuals. Creative individuals often show a multiplicity of characteristics, leading to an array of emotions and behaviours that at times can be quite unpredictable.
