While of course vast generalizations are not always going to be accurate, as an [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myers%E2%80%93Briggs_Type_Indicator INFP on MBTI tests] and someone who's generally been more of a fiction reading creative-type (less business-oriented, more interested in languages, social causes, etc.) it feels very isolating because most lawyers give off a very type A (not meant derogatorily) less emotional more drawn to power and status vibe. Is this generally true? Law firms, for instance, seem highly competitive and while I am quite decently skilled and possibly good at the work (in terms of research, basic drafting, language skills, etc.) the constant hyper-driven (seeming) nature of the job, networking needs etc. makes it seem like someone like me would be a bad fit. Any insights?

The MBTI is the modern equivalent of the horoscope. It is solely your perception of your own self as different people may perceive you differently in differing contexts. For instance, with respect to 'P' in INTP, an 'INTP' may think they are "perceiving", another person might so think too. However, there is a possibility that no body other than these 2 think that the said INTP is a very perceptive person. It's an entirely subjective thing and can't possibly be standardized. Further, as people live through more experiences in life, their perception of their own self might change/ evolve too. So the question still remains as to what purpose the MBTI serve other than being a conversation point at times?

That's just a person to person conversation point. Speak to a psychologist too, they'll tell you the MBTI is entirely bogus and pointless (I did). Look into the factual background of it too, quite an amusing one (to me) considering how convincing it may seem and seriously it is taken.

True, I had used it just as an example of what I meant by personality type, but I basically meant to ask what lawyer personality types are generally (how are they perceived)? In my (limited opinion) everyone seems quite highly ambitious interested in control, power etc. so I think what I meant to ask is if that perception is largely true! Did go into a spiral and didn't phrase well though.(I understand there can't be so clean a classification but certain professions do draw more of a certain broadly similar (in some essential ways) kind of people)

The MBIT is taught as part of a course on leadership at Harvard Law School. While not everybody may perceive you in a certain way, personalities are distinct and as such many people can very much agree that an individual has a very particular personality trait. And yes, as people have different experiences in life, their personalities can change — but there’s no reason why their MBIT cannot change too. The MBIT is simply an assessment of your strengths and weaknesses, and is ideally used to understand how you operate in social settings (teams, leadership positions, different work cultures, etc.). It’s a tool for understanding yourself so that you and your colleagues work most effectively with one another.

While MBTI may not be valid tool for personality assessment, I understand from your post that you are worried about being an introvert in a field which is dominated by extroverts.

I certainly see your concern because the lawyer personality has been stereotyped as the outgoing and brash go-getters. It isn't entirely wrong given that aggression seems rife at almost all law firms and also seems to bring some pay off. There are also some firms that also encourage aggressive behaviour. Years ago, one of my friends at a Tier-1 was given the feedback that she should be more aggressive in her partnership interview.

But, there is also place for more introverted folks - just not in every team or law firm. As with everything, it is important to understand the culture of the firm and the team with which you are seeking to work. I am pretty introverted myself, but my senior partners always pushed me to interact with clients and take up speaking engagements despite my discomfort in order for me to get over it.

There are many aspects of the job that an introvert can excel at - analysis, grasp and an ability to listen. Clients often feel like their lawyers don't understand them. An introvert can certainly have an advantage in this regard.

Also, although I don't advocate for changing your personality, as you go up the rung, it is important to be more confident and vocal. You can achieve this by just ensuring that you say your piece and what you say is rational - I always admire and like working with lawyers like that across the table , even if I have to concede, compared to those who scream and give everyone a headache. If you look at developing an ability to speak more confidently and publicly as a skill rather than a change in personality, you may find it more palatable and also easier to digest.

You also need to figure out your aim - do you want to be the star that everyone talks about? Then being out there is obviously more beneficial. Do you just want to good work and have a good rapport with your colleagues and partners? Although it is a low-key approach, this is quite possible.

To sum up, you are not a misfit if you find the right place for yourself and develop your confidence. And personalities are not and should not be static. To adapt to the world is a part of personal growth.