University of Oulu study reveals temperament traits linked to leadership and entrepreneurship decisions
Research conducted at the University of Oulu has revealed that certain temperament traits, such as curiosity, impulsiveness, energy, and self-confidence, are prevalent among individuals who become leaders. In contrast, entrepreneurs tend to exhibit strong financial values, including a high willingness to take risks. Master’s student Mikko Vaaramo will defend his thesis on factors influencing career choices on December 13.
The study highlights that experiential pursuits and avoidance of difficulties differ between men and women. However, both female and male leaders demonstrate a significantly higher inclination towards seeking experiences and a lower tendency to avoid challenges compared to the average for their gender. The research utilizes data from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, incorporating registry information regarding individuals’ occupations, socioeconomic status, marital history, academic performance, and income.
Vaaramo examines personality traits across different professions, revealing notable differences in risk-taking and persistence between men and women in various fields. He notes that traditional professions, which are typically low in risk, do not demand significant risk-taking. For men, a low propensity for risk is associated with jobs in construction, repair, and transport. For women, low persistence correlates with office and customer service roles, whereas high persistence predicts a tendency to enter construction and manufacturing jobs.
The dissertation posits that temperament and financial values are essential components in career decision-making, alongside skills and education. While previous economic studies have primarily focused on human capital, this new research emphasizes the importance of temperament and financial values, particularly illustrating a marked difference in leaders and entrepreneurs compared to others.